On November 23rd, President Chen Shui-bian and Burkina Faso President Blaise Compaore signed a joint communiqué, reaffirming their commitment to further promoting social and economic cooperation between the two countries, and their determination to uphold democracy, world peace, and human rights.
In the joint communiqué, the two presidents expressed regret over China's continued military intimidation against Taiwan. In this respect, President Chen informed President Compaore of the publication of Taiwan's first National Security Report, and reiterated this government's commitment to initiating dialogue with the Chinese leaders on the basis of sovereignty, in hopes of facilitating peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
With regard to the relationship between Taiwan and Burkina Faso, both presidents were pleased with the progress made since the two countries resumed diplomatic ties in 1994, and pledged to further expand bilateral cooperation in different areas.
Regarding the social crises and tensions in some countries, the two presidents jointly called on the international community to facilitate permanent peace through peaceful dialogues and consultations, adding that the principles of national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected during the process.
President Compaore expressed his deepest thanks to President Chen and his government for the warm hospitality he received in Taiwan. He assured President Chen that his country will continue to help Taiwan participate in international organizations, especially the United Nations.
President Compaore also invited President Chen to visit Burkina Faso. The invitation was gladly accepted, and the details of the visit will be decided later through diplomatic channels.