Taipei, Aug. 15 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian received visiting Nicaraguan Vice President Jose Rizo Sunday at the Presidential Office and extended him a warm welcome.
During the meeting, Chen expressed his appreciation for Rizo's visit to Taiwan and his participation in the 2004 Democratic Pacific Assembly held in Taipei Aug. 13-15.
Chen told his guest that his participation constitutes an important support for the assembly as well as the establishment of Democratic Pacific Union initiated by Vice President Annette Lu.
Chen also asked Rizo to convey his regards and gratitude to Nicaraguan President Enrique Bolanos for the support the Central American ally has extended to Taiwan and its people.
Referring to the invitation extended to him by Bolanos, Chen said that he would not be able to visit Nicaragua this year due to his tight schedule for dealing domestic affairs, such as the December's legislative elections.
Chen also expressed hope that the Taiwan-Nicaraguan relations will be further strengthened.