On April 18 at the Office of the President, President Chen Shui-bian conferred the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon upon Mr. Jose Luis Corripio Estrada, president of the Corripio Foundation of the Dominican Republic.
In the conferment ceremony, President Chen praised Mr. Corripio for his endeavors and contributions in promoting the friendship between the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the Dominican Republic.
After receiving the medal, Mr. Corripio said in his remarks that on behalf of his Foundation he will continue to support the people of Taiwan, defend Taiwan's freedom and democracy, and strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
Mr. Corripio's wife, Ana Maria Alonso Garcia, his daughter, Lucia Corripio, and Dominican Ambassador to the R.O.C. (Taiwan) Victor Sanchez were also present at the ceremony.