President Chen Shui-bian met with Republic of Palau President Tommy E. Remengesau and his wife on the afternoon of January 17, and once again extended his welcome to President Remengesau and his delegation on behalf of the ROC (Taiwan) government and people.
President Chen also expressed his gratitude to President Remengesau for his government's efficient handling of The First Taiwan-Pacific Allies Summit, which was held in Palau in September 2006. President Chen said the summit was a resounding success and the heads of state attending the event all gave it a big thumb's up, admiring President Remengesau's leadeing ability. President Chen said The Second Taiwan-Pacific Allies Summit will be held this year in Majuro, the capital of the Marshall Islands. He said he is confident that President Remengesau will provide his assistance and experience to enable this year's summit to also be a success.
President Chen also took the opportunity to congratulate Palau on the relocation and opening of its new capital, saying he believes this marks an important milestone in Palau's history. He added that he is proud the Taiwan government has been able to provide assistance in the creation of the new capital
On behalf of the ROC (Taiwan) government and people, President Chen thanked President Remengesau and the Palau government for their staunch support of Taiwan, especially with regards to efforts to obtain membership for Taiwan in the United Nations, the World Health Organization and the Pacific Islands Forum, as well as Palau's friendship to the people of Taiwan. Palau's continued support for Taiwan will hopefully pave the way to enable Taiwan to make bigger contributions on the international stage, he said.
President Remengesau expressed his gratitude to the ROC (Taiwan) government for its warm reception as well as its long-term assistance to Palau. He added that Palau will continue to support Taiwan in the international arena, adding that he hopes relations between the two countries will continue to develop based on the existing foundation.