On November 20, President Chen Shui-bian met with President Blaise Compaore of Burkina Faso, who led a visiting group to Taiwan, expressing his wholehearted welcome to the delegation.
In the reception, President Chen first congratulated President Compaore on his re-election last year, garnering a high 81% of the vote. This past April President Compaore's ruling party also won local elections by gaining 72% of the vote. President Chen stated that under President Compaore's distinguished leadership, his administration has achieved remarkably and enjoyed full support of his people.
As November 20 is Universal Children's Day, President Chen particularly praised Mrs. Compaore for her dedication and contributions to children's and humanitarian care. Mrs. Compaore, a competent First Lady, has achieved greatly in promoting medical and health care, education, women's rights, and sports in Burkina Faso and has earned the recognition of her people, he said.
In addition, President Chen expressed his admiration for President Compaore's outstanding achievements in international affairs, including elevating Burkina Fuso's international status. He also gave his best wishes for the success of Burkina Fuso's bid to become a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) between 2008 and 2009.
In response, President Compaore stated that Burkina Faso is a sovereign state, and that the choice of Taiwan as its ally is a decision based on its free will. He assured President Chen that Burkina Faso will work together with Taiwan to make Taiwan and its 23 million people accepted and recognized by the international society.