Palau, Jan. 27 (CNA) Freedom and democracy contribute to world peace, President Chen Shui-bian said in a speech delivered at the Palau parliament Thursday.
Echoing United States President George W. Bush's promise to spread freedom and democracy to the "darkest corners" of the world in his Jan. 20 inaugural speech, Chen said that he believes a more free and democratic international community will better contribute to world peace.
In his speech, Chen explained to Palau lawmakers Taiwan's democratization experience, which he said is recognized internationally as a "success story."
He also praised the people of Palau for their efforts to pursue independence and democratization.
Both Taiwan and Palau are oceanic nations and share common values of freedom and democracy as well as the same Austronesian culture, which, he said, constitutes a solid foundation for bilateral relations.
He also thanked Palau for the support and assistance it has extended to Taiwan in its bids to join the United Nations, the World Health Organization and other international organizations. "Palau is a real friend of Taiwan," he said.
Chen arrived in Palau from Taipei earlier that day on the first leg of his two-nation, five-day state visit to two Republic of China diplomatic allies in the South Pacific. He will also go to the Solomon Islands.