First of all, I would like to invite you to heartily applaud for the conclusion of the First Taiwan-Pacific Allies Summit as well as for the get-together of us, seven brotherly countries.
I believe all of us here, especially myself, are very delighted that the First Taiwan-Pacific Allies Summit has been a great success. More than a year ago, I made two official visits to our Pacific allies and promised at that time to propose a Taiwan-Pacific allies summit. Today, after six months of preparation, the summit has finally come true. Up until recently, some people had, out of good will, suggested that I either cancel this summit or just appoint someone on my behalf to attend the meeting, but I declined. As you all know, I am the first-ever President of Taiwan to visit our Pacific friends and therefore have to participate in this summit however difficult it may be. I am glad I didn't cancel it and I am here. For this successful summit, I would like to express my gratitude to all of you, in particular to our hosts, President and Mrs. Remengesau and the people and government of Palau, whose thoughtfulness and high efficiency have greatly contributed to its success.
This occasion recalls to me my official visits to five of our Pacific allies last year, especially to Palau, where sampling bat soup and being kissed several times by dolphins were among the most memorable moments. And what interested my people at home the most was whether I was choked on water when snorkeling. This time, our host, President Remengesau, has considerately arranged a fishing contest rather than snorkeling, for which I would like to thank him once again.
Even today, I can still hear those long, echoing drum beats from warrior dances in the Solomon Islands, where I was even invited to play along with the performers. While in the Marshall Islands, I was very impressed to witness President Note's outstanding skills in canoe sailing, thanks to which we could take in the rhythms of the ocean and sea breeze on a canoe trip.
In Kiribati, I woke early so as to be amongst the first on earth to greet the dawn and witnessed a magnificent sunrise. And I believe Kiribati is the world's luckiest country, which always reminds people of sunrise, a symbol of hope and happiness.
The singing and dancing of the people of Tuvalu also left me with many lasting impressions. I was particularly amused by the multi-function of the airport runway--it also serves as an amusement park for the local people. I know that Prime Minister Ielemia is worrying about the financial difficulties confronting his two-week-old new government. I would like to remind him of myself, a best friend of his, who is facing many more annoying troubles, in the hope that the Prime Minister will be much relieved. So, tomorrow let's leave all our problems behind us and go fishing together!
The Pacific Ocean is the largest ocean on earth. It nurtures both the vitality of Austronesian cultures and the precious and supportive friendships between Taiwan and its allies here. The vast ocean is not a barrier for us. On the contrary, it is rich in the resources that we rely on for our survival. Let us work together in creating an even better Pacific Age based on friendship and mutual trust and assistance.
In closing, and on behalf of the Taiwan delegation, please allow me to express my sincere appreciation once again for the hospitality of Your Excellency, President Remengesau, and the people of Palau. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Your Excellencies, Presidents and Prime Ministers, for taking the time to participate in this summit. Thank you! Mei Sulang! Kam rabwa! Komotata! Tubwa! Tagio! Fakafetai!
May I invite you all to raise your glasses in a toast: To the prosperity of our great countries; to the good health of their esteemed leaders; and to the lasting friendship between us all!
May all of you enjoy excellent health and success!