President Lai Ching-te expressed hope that Taiwan and St. Kitts and Nevis would continue to collaboratively promote agricultural development, sustainable environment, talent cultivation and women’s empowerment for the benefit of the peoples of both countries.
Lai made the remarks during a meeting with a contingent led by Denzil Douglas, the ally’s foreign minister. Other prominent attendees at the March 18 gathering at the Presidential Office in Taipei City included Kaye Bass, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Adina Richards, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Economic Development and Investment.
Despite the geographic distance, the two countries share the common values of democracy, freedom and the respect for human rights, the president said. He also took the opportunity to voice appreciation for the ally’s active support of Taiwan’s involvement in international bodies such as the U.N. and World Health Organization.
Lai also mentioned that the medical background he shares with Douglas and St. Kitts’ Prime Minister Terrance Michael Drew gives them a deep understanding of the importance of health. He said he anticipated the launch of the climate-smart JNF Hospital near the ally’s capital to contribute to public health in St. Kitts and Nevis.
Lai went on to say that the two nations would build on the foundation of Taiwan’s expertise in renewable energy and energy efficiency to head toward green industry transition in both countries.
In response, Douglas lauded Taiwan as an unwavering partner since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1983. He further thanked Taiwan’s government for the generous support of his country’s economic and societal development, adding that the robust bilateral partnership would facilitate his nation’s sustainable growth.
With its innovative and advanced technologies, Taiwan is poised to have a positive impact on the world’s most urgent issues, Douglas noted. He concluded with a commitment to continued support for Taiwan’s international participation. (POC-E)
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