Taipei, Jan. 7 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian phoned Guatemalan President-elect Oscar Berger Perdomo Wednesday to congratulate him and to communicate the Republic of China's desire for closer cooperation and ties between the two countries.
Chen congratulated Berger on his election as the head of state of Guatemala, a long-term ROC diplomatic partner in Central America, and expressed his belief that Guatemala will become more prosperous and increasingly progressive under Berger's capable leadership.
Stating that the ROC government treasures very much its long-term traditional friendship and diplomatic relations with Guatemala since 1953, Chen invited Berger to visit Taiwan for a second time. The president said he is always waiting for a second opportunity to meet Berger again soon in Taipei for discussions on issues of mutual concern to enhance the benefits of their peoples.
The president also thanked Berger for his country's lengthy and firm support for Taiwan in the international community despite great geographic distance between the two countries. He promised to further step up two-way cooperation and exchanges on a wide range of issues.
Despite a tight schedule mainly because of his re-election bid in March, Chen said he still wishes to visit Guatemala in the near future and have the chance to sip its aromatic coffee and get to know its historical heritage.
For his part, Berger also invited Chen to visit his country and wished good health to Chen's wife.