Saint Lucian delegation met Taiwan President Lai Ching-te

A delegation of Saint Lucia visited the Republic of China, commonly called Taiwan, and had a meeting with President Lai Ching-te. The delegation was led by Alvina Reynolds, the Senate President, and Claudius J. Francis, the Speaker who represented the nation. The official meeting took place on 08 October.

The delegation of Saint Lucia arrived in Taiwan to mark the occasion of the National Day celebration. On 10 October, Taiwan celebrated the 113th Double Ten, which is a day dedicated to the revolution of 1911. President Lai also expressed his gratitude and thanked the delegation for attending the celebration of the historic day.

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre also shared an official note for the government and the people of Taiwan while congratulating them on the Double Ten Day. President Lai appreciated the stand of Saint Lucia and talked about the significant relationship between the two democratic nations.

Taiwan sees Saint Lucia as its crucial partner and ally in the Caribbean region, and both countries have taken several steps together to achieve the growth and prosperity of the people. The government of St Lucia also took a firm stand in favour of Taiwan on international platforms on many occasions.

In the meeting, the representatives of both nations also discussed many crucial initiatives and steps related to various challenges. President Lai mentioned in his words that Taiwan is actively promoting values-based diplomacy and will continue with that to get better results in economic growth, public welfare, and global peace.

President Lai said, “I extend a warm welcome to senate president Reynolds and speaker Francis as they visit Taiwan once again. It is a pleasure to have you and your delegation join us to mark our National Day Celebration. Your presence demonstrates the friendly relations between the governments and parliaments of our two countries.”

He added, “Saint Lucia is one of Taiwan’s key allies in the Caribbean. It has continued to voice support and call for Taiwan’s international participation at numerous international venues, including the Central American Parliament and the General Debate during this year’s United Nations General Assembly. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to the government and parliament of Saint Lucia.”

About the objectives of Taiwan and Saint Lucia, President Lai said that both nations respect the universal values of freedom, the rule of law, and democracy. His words were somewhat targeted at China, also named the People’s Republic of China, which claims Taiwan to be its part.

President Lai talked about the deepening tie-up between Taiwan and Saint Lucia and bilateral cooperation in the sectors of economy, agriculture, and education. He stated that the cooperation of the two nations is bringing success and fruitful results.

Both nations have taken significant steps for the betterment of people and the future of the youth. In the bilateral meeting, they highlighted the projects that are helping the economy and infrastructural development, along with training and scholarships for youngsters. The pandemic recovery was also mentioned by the officials of both island nations.

The representatives of Saint Lucia also highlighted the projects and programmes led with the collaboration of Taiwan and how it resulted in a positive way. They said that both nations would continue their cooperation, which would result in some remarkable achievements.

In his closing words, President Lai Ching-te said, “I want to thank you all for your longstanding support for our diplomatic relations. Going forward, Taiwan will continue to promote values-based diplomacy, strengthening ties with Saint Lucia.”

He added, “We will also engage in economic diplomacy, spurring further industrial development together with our democratic partners and Saint Lucia for the benefit of our peoples. Let us move forward together as we continue to enhance the well-being of our peoples and contribute more to global peace and prosperity.”