Taipei, Dec. 5 (CNA) Republic of China President Chen Shui-bian received World Pharmacology Society Chairman Peter Kielgast Tuesday and gave him a warm welcome on his first visit to Taiwan.
Chen described Kielgast's visit as an honor for the ROC medical sector, signifying that the world has taken note of the achievements made by Taiwan in medical care and health protection.
Chen stressed that as a member of the global village, the ROC is willing to take part in and contribute to international organizations, especially in the field of medical care. If the ROC could have the chance to join the World Health Organization (WHO), he added, it could share Taiwan's experience with the rest of the world.
Chen expressed his hope that Kielgast will use his influence to call on the world medical sector to support the ROC's bid for WHO membership.
Kielgast said in return that the World Pharmacology Society is a non-government organization under the control of the WHO and is planning to carry out an "Asian Forum" plan to set up a regional office to allow partnership relations with member countries in the region. The two sides of the Taiwan Strait could join the proposed forum to create the opportunity for participation and interchanges, he added.
Chen immediately invited Kielgast to set up the regional office in Taiwan, saying Taipei would be the best location for such a facility.
Noting that ROC and Kielgast's native Denmark are both free and democratic, Chen said the ROC hopes to play a more positive role in the international community. Although Taiwan may face stiff challenges, "we have confidence that we will arise," he added.