President Note is one of the most revered heads of state in the Pacific region. Under his leadership, rapid progress has been achieved in numerous areas of infrastructure development, winning him the respect and support of his people. Taiwan highly cherishes him for actively speaking on its behalf in the international community based upon his staunch belief in the universal values of freedom, democracy, peace, and human rights. We also appreciate President Note for strongly supporting Taiwan's fundamental right to participate in the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and other international bodies in the capacity of a sovereign nation. Mr. President, on behalf of the 23 million people of Taiwan, I would like to express my sincere appreciation and utmost respect for your noble character and sense of justice.
A saying in Taiwan goes, "A drop of kindness shall be repaid with a stream of appreciation." In other words, any assistance and warmth that others bestow upon us will not be forgotten but instead will be repaid with kindness many times over.
The Marshall Islands and Taiwan have many commonalities. Both are islands and, therefore, maritime countries. Both lack natural resources and depend on the diligence and wisdom of their peoples to create a niche for themselves in the world. Having faced similar predicaments, Taiwan is happy to share its experience in national development with your great country, particularly through technical cooperation in agriculture and fisheries. We are also ready to lend our expertise in nurturing small and medium-sized enterprises and expanding export markets. It is our hope to provide your people with concrete assistance and experience in national development for their reference.
Currently, private businesses from Taiwan are cooperating in the fishery industry with your country, wherein the Marshall Islands acts as the base of operations. We hope that closer exchanges will allow the people of Taiwan to develop a more comprehensive understanding of your country. In turn, this should attract greater business investments, particularly in the areas of repair and renovation of fishing vessels, aquaculture, and marine tourism.
In closing, on behalf of the members of my delegation, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to President Note and the First Lady for their hospitality by inviting us to this banquet. I would also like to thank all the guests with us here at this grand occasion. It has been a great honor to be with you here tonight.
My friends, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, please join me now in a toast to wish the best of health to President Note and the First Lady, prosperity to the Republic of the Marshall Islands, an everlasting friendship between the Marshall Islands and Taiwan, and good health and success to each and every one of you. Thank you very much! Komotata! [END]