President Chen Shui-bian and Dominican Republic President Leonel Antonio Fernandez Reyna singed a joint communiqué on June 28 at the Office of the President, reassuring cooperation between Taiwan and the Dominican Republic in technology and economic development and in promoting democracy.
"The president of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the president of Dominican Republic look to strengthen the friendship and solidarity between Taiwan and the Dominican Republic, and are content with the consolidation of democracy in their counterpart country," says the joint communiqué.
As a memorandum of intention regarding the signing of a free trade agreement (FTA) was already signed in February 2005 by Taiwan and the Dominican Republic, it is stated in the communiqué that the FTA is scheduled to be officially signed in 2007 in order to enhance the two countries' trade relations.
In addition, President Fernandez reiterates in the communiqué that he supports Taiwan's bid to participate in the United Nations, World Health Assembly, and other international organizations. He also manifests that disputes in the Taiwan Strait should be resolved by peaceful means.
Before signing the joint communiqué, President Fernandez thanked the people of Taiwan for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation.