On June 26, President Chen Shui-bian welcomed President Leonel Antonio Fernandez Reyna of the Dominican Republic with a 21-gun salute at the Office of the President.
"To Your Excellency President Fernandez, your wife, Mrs. Fernandez, and your delegation, I extend my warmest welcome," President Chen greeted his guests.
“This is Your Excellency's fourth visit to Taiwan and also the first one since Your Excellency won the presidential election in 2004. Your visits to Taiwan are the manifestations of the friendship between Taiwan and the Dominican Republic,” President Chen said in his remarks delivered at the welcome ceremony.
The Dominican Republic is also the first ally where President Chen visited when he was elected president in 2000.
President Chen also said that he looked forward to discussing with President Fernandez issues of mutual concern in the following days.
In conclusion, President Chen wished President Fernandez and Mrs. Fernandez good health, and the Dominican Republic delegation an unforgettable stay in Taiwan.