Taipei, Nov. 28 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian decorated visiting St. Christopher and Nevis Prime Minister Denzil Llewellyn Douglas Friday in recognition of his contributions to the promotion of relations between the two countries.
In a ceremony held at the Presidential Office, Chen bestowed the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon on Douglas, who arrived in Taipei Nov. 25 at the head of a five-member delegation for a five-day visit.
Chen thanked Douglas for the support the Caribbean nation has extended to the Republic of China in the international arena, particularly in its bid to join the United Nations, the World Health Organization and other international organizations.
Over the past 20 years since St. Christopher and Nevis obtained independence and established diplomatic ties with the ROC in 1983, Chen said the two countries have successfully developed various cooperation programs that have brought fruitful results.
He expressed the hope that the two countries will continue to increase cooperation and exchanges for mutual benefits.
In response, Douglas praised Chen for his long fight for freedom, democracy and respect of human rights which, he said, are the universal values that the people of St. Christopher and Nevis uphold and constitute a solid foundation for the long-lasting friendship between the two countries.
He also thanked Chen for the assistance that the ROC government and people have extended to his country.