President Lai Ching-te said Nov. 28 that Taiwan is committed to deepening partnerships with allies and like-minded partners as he welcomed delegations from Paraguay and the U.S. at the Presidential Office in Taipei City.
Paraguay’s delegation was led by Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, to whom Lai expressed gratitude for the South American ally’s staunch support of Taiwan’s international participation. He cited President Santiago Peña Palacios’ remarks backing Taiwan at the U.N. Summit of the Future and the General Debate earlier this year, as well as letters signed by Ramírez to urge the country’s inclusion during the Interpol General Assembly and the 29th U.N. Climate Change Conference earlier this month.
Taiwan and Paraguay enjoy close links, with collaborations in areas spanning agriculture, education, medical care and women’s empowerment, Lai said, adding that he hopes the two countries continue to deepen cooperation for the benefit of their peoples.
In his response, Ramírez stressed the importance of Taiwan-Paraguay relations, citing economic and technological exchanges, as well as those embracing the topics of trade and transportation. The foreign minister thanked Taiwan for its support of Paraguay throughout the 67 years of official ties, and reaffirmed on behalf of President Peña Paraguay’s unwavering support and willingness to continue speaking out for Taiwan in global arenas.
On the same day, Lai also received a delegation led by American Legion National Commander James LaCoursiere. The president expressed gratitude to the AL for its long-standing support of Taiwan-U.S. exchanges and cooperation, and shared his hope that Taiwan and the U.S. will continue to have close interactions in veterans’ affairs as part of efforts to further bolster bilateral security cooperation and safeguard global and regional peace and stability.
LaCoursiere praised Taiwan for recognizing the importance of vigilance and military strength in protecting freedom. He concluded by emphasizing that the well-being of veterans is instrumental to any defense policy, and the contributions of veterans and their families should be cherished. (YCH-E)
Write to Taiwan Today at ttonline@mofa.gov.tw