Ma lauds ROC’s robust Central American ties

2015/09/16

President Ma Ying-jeou said Sept. 14 that the ROC and its Central American diplomatic allies enjoy firm and stable ties, and he looks forward to expanding collaboration across a wide array of areas.

“People-to-people exchanges are steadily growing,” Ma said. “In addition, many joint undertakings are underway in Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and El Salvador, spanning agriculture, environment, medical care and vocational education.

“This underscores the government’s success in promoting viable diplomacy since I took office in May 2008, and I hope to see more initiatives under this pragmatic framework going forward.”

The president made the remarks at a Taipei City banquet celebrating the 194th anniversary of Central American independence hosted by the embassies of the ROC’s four diplomatic allies in the region.

On the subject of viable diplomacy, Ma said it is a pragmatic policy of dignity, autonomy and flexibility, enabling Taiwan to achieve significant headway in furthering international relations and developing common interests.

“A total of 148 countries and territories have entered into visa-waiver or landing-rights programs with Taiwan, up from 54 seven years ago. This is in addition to a vast array of cross-border collaboration projects and youth exchange programs with our key partners.”

The ROC’s Central American diplomatic allies have played a valuable role in helping Taiwan achieve observer status at the World Health Assembly and take part as a guest at the 38th International Civil Aviation Organization Assembly.

“They also demonstrated true acts of friendship by extending heartfelt concern and assistance in times of difficulty, such as this year’s TransAsia plane crash and New Taipei water park blaze.”

Ma said the six visits he made to the Central American allies in his capacity as ROC president further illustrate the strength of ties, and he expects all of the sides to continue striving for greater prosperity together.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=236618&ctNode=2194&mp=9)