Taipei, July 24 (CNA) President Chen met with visiting Paraguayan First Lady Susana Galli de Gonzalez Macchi on Monday for wide-ranging talks.
Chen first extended a warm welcome to Mrs. Gonzalez and her entourage on behalf of the Republic of China government and people.
The President said the ROC and Paraguay have forged formal diplomatic ties for nearly five decades. "We have long shared a cordial relationship. As the ROC's new leader, I will continue cementing bilateral relations and further upgrade cooperation based on current foundations," Chen added.
Chen expressed his admiration for Paraguay's spirit in pursuing freedom and democracy over past years. "Although your country has encountered difficulties in its longtime pursuit of democratization, it has managed to overcome all challenges and won world recognition for its achievements," he noted.
Touching on the Paraguayan first lady's Taipei itinerary, Chen said he is aware that the nain purpose of Mrs. Gonzalez's current visit is to help promote Paraguayan beef.
Chen recalled that he enjoyed the treat of Paraguayan steak during a visit to Asuncion, Paraguay's capital, four years ago when he was still Taipei mayor. "To date, I still remember the good taste of Paraguayan beef," he added.
The president further said the ROC will assist Mrs. Gonzalez in carrying out her Paraguayan women employment promotion plan and in raising funds for improving Paraguay's medical services.
Chen said his wife, Wu Shu-chen who was also present at the meeting, will push Taiwan's major private organizations to pool resources to help the Paraguayan first lady realize her forward-looking projects.
For her part, Mrs. Gonzalez invited President Chen to visit Paraguay on behalf of her husband. She also assured Chen that Paraguay will continue supporting the ROC's bid to join major international organizations and strengthening economic cooperation with the ROC on a reciprocal basis.