Taipei, Dec.19 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian reconfirmed Tuesday the Republic of China's commitment to its accords with the Republic of Palau.
In a meeting with visiting Palau President-elect Tommy Esang Remen Gesau, who is the present vice president, Chen said Taipei will speed up its fulfillment of the accords.
He congratulated Remen Gesau's on his victory in last month's presidential election in Palau and said he looks forward to cooperating with him.
Recalling the presence of Palau President Kuniwo Nakamura at his inauguration on May 20, Chen said he will not be able to attend Remen Gesau's Jan. 19 inauguration because he is tied to domestic business.
Instead, Chen said he will send Weng Yueh-sheng, the president of the Judicial Yuan and Chen's former teacher, as his personal envoy to Remen Gesau's inauguration.
Noting that Palau is a favorite destination of Taiwan travelers because of its beautiful natural scenery, Chen said Taiwan tourists to the Western Pacific state have increased by nearly 50 percent this year and the number is expected to increase further after Palau opens an embassy in Taipei.
He expressed thanks for Palau's long-standing support for Taipei's bids for membership of various international organizations and said he looks forward to Remen Gesau's continuous backing for the ROC's efforts to increase its international presence.
Remen Gesau for his part pledged to build on the solid friendship formed by Nakamura between Taiwan and Palau.