ROC-Paraguay relations lauded by Ma

2016/01/28

President Ma Ying-jeou said Jan. 26 that ROC-Paraguay ties are going from strength to strength as both sides pursue an array of opportunities across a spectrum of areas.

“Exchanges between the ROC and Paraguay have seen considerable growth in recent years,” Ma said. “This underscores the effectiveness of efforts in boosting bilateral exchanges and interactions.”

The president made the remarks while receiving a nine-member delegation led by Mario Abdo Benitez, president of the Paraguayan senate, at the Presidential Office in Taipei City. Also attending were Hou Ching-shan, ROC deputy minister of foreign affairs, and Marcial Bobadilla Guillen, Paraguay’s ambassador to the ROC.

According to Ma, two-way exchanges are expanding on the basis of Taiwan’s role as a provider of new technology and humanitarian aid in the international community.

“Such a development is backed by a series of bilateral programs,” Ma said. “We are assisting Paraguay develop capabilities in producing livestock fodder, orbfish and orchids, as well as constructing affordable housing and upgrading medical information management practices.

The ROC also provided relief funds for Paraguayan flood victims last year, illustrating a deep bond between people from both countries while reaffirming the government’s determination to extend a helping hand in a time of need.

Since the ROC and Paraguay established ties 59 years ago, the South American diplomatic ally has helped greatly in Taiwan’s efforts to take part in international affairs at all levels.

In addition, Ma expressed appreciation for a September 2015 address in the U.N. General Assembly by Paraguayan President Horacio Cartes supporting Taiwan’s contributions to promoting peace and stability in East Asia.

“Paraguay has demonstrated true friendship over the years by backing the nation’s bid to participate in international agencies like the World Health Assembly, International Civil Aviation Organization and U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change.

“We seek to continue advancing this solid relationship and lay the foundation of lasting prosperity for the peoples of both countries.”

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=241728&ctNode=2194&mp=9)