President Chen Shui-bian received Sir Colville N. Young, Governor-General of Belize on October 11. On behalf of the government and the 23 million people of Taiwan, President Chen expressed appreciation for his attending the ROC's National Day celebrations.
President Chen said that since Sir Colville N. Young took office as Governor-General in 1993, Belize has been supportive of Taiwan. According to the President, Sir Colville N. Young once said that Taiwan deserves a seat each in the WHO and the UN, and that unlike many great powers that wield their influence to control small countries, Taiwan uses its advancement to help others. Sir Colville N. Young assured President Chen that no matter who wins the 2008 election in Belize, he will exert his influence to maintain the relations between Taiwan and Belize.
President Chen also praised Belize as a truly liberal and democratic country where various races live together without discrimination.
Sir Colville N. Young's visit to the Office of the President was accompanied by Taiwan's Vice Foreign Minister Chang Siao-yue and Deputy Secretary-General to the President Liu Shyh-fang.