Taipei, Nov. 20 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian said Thursday that Taiwan is very willing to participate in Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) activities in order to make greater contributions to the New Zealand-based organization.
During a meeting with visiting PIF Secretary-General W. Noel Levi, Chen said that as a PIF dialogue partner, Taiwan will continue to support its cause and take part in the organization's activities.
Taiwan has maintained close ties with the PIF since becoming one of its dialogue partners in 1992, Chen said. For example, he went on, the country has offered scholarships to students from PIF member states since 1999.
Chen suggested that the PIF study the feasibility of opening an office in Taiwan in the near future to facilitate the boosting of bilateral relations.