ROC President Ma Ying-jeou said he expects Taiwan-Paraguay relations to go from strength to strength as both sides pursue exciting opportunities in the areas of trade, commerce and technology.
“We look forward to expanded cooperation with Paraguay, a South American country rich in natural and human resources,” Ma said March 14.
Ma made the remarks while receiving Paraguayan President Fernando Lugo, who is on a seven-day visit to Taiwan that wraps up March 17, at the Presidential Office in Taipei City.
Ma took the opportunity to present Lugo with the Order of the Brilliant Jade with Grand Cordon, the highest ROC honor, in recognition of his efforts to improve the welfare of the Paraguayan people since taking office in August 2008.
Through reforms in agriculture and other industries, Lugo has helped usher in a new era of economic prosperity in Paraguay, Ma said. In response, Lugo said he was delighted to visit Taiwan, a geographically distant but close friend, and called for more Taiwanese investment in his country.
“Paraguay is as an outstanding entry point for Taiwan-based enterprises seeking to increase their presence in the South American market,” Lugo added.
The Paraguayan president is set to co-host the 16th Taiwan-Paraguay Economic Cooperation Conference with Minister of Economic Affairs Shih Yen-shiang March 16. Attendees will discuss ways of bolstering the bilateral trading partnership of 54 years standing. (JSM)
Write to Elaine Hou at elainehou@mail.gio.gov.tw