President Chen Shui-bian on December 5 met with Timothy S. Harris, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, Industry and Commerce of Saint Christopher and Nevis at the Presidential Office. The president also met with Jasmine E. Huggins, the new charge d'affaires from that country to the ROC (Taiwan). In addition to expressing his pleasure at the soon-to-be-established Saint Christopher and Nevis embassy here, the president also extended a warm welcome and gratitude to the visitors on behalf of the government and 23 million people of the ROC (Taiwan).
The president said that the two countries have enjoyed diplomatic relations for many years and that the people of the two nations staunchly believe in the universal values of democracy, freedom and human rights. No gap exists between the two despite the geographical distance between the two countries, he said. He noted the frequent and pleasant exchanges between the two countries. Minister Harris previously visited Taiwan in July of last year, and the president said he is delighted to have the opportunity to welcome Minister Harris back to Taiwan. On October 2 during the General Debate of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, Minister Harris advocated Taiwan's entry into the UN. President Chen said the government and people of Taiwan admired and were deeply touched by Minister Harris's stance. He added he is confident that this is representative of the strong friendship that Saint Christopher and Nevis and Minister Harris feel toward Taiwan.
Saint Christopher and Nevis is presently preparing to open an embassy here, which is expected to be formally inaugurated in January. President Chen welcomed the move and said Taiwan will provide full assistance to help Saint Christopher and Nevis establish the embassy. The president also said he hopes that Prime Minister Denzil Douglas will be able to personally preside over the opening ceremonies of the embassy, demonstrating the deep friendship between the two countries. He added that he is confident the two countries will engage in even more cooperative affairs in the future.
President Chen also thanked Saint Christopher and Nevis for its long-term staunch support for Taiwan in participating in international organizations and the world community. He said that Saint Christopher and Nevis has unconditionally spoken on behalf of Taiwan in support of Taiwan's bid to join the World Health Organization and the UN. The president said that while Taiwan was unsuccessful this year in its bid to join the UN using the name "Taiwan," he hopes that Saint Christopher and Nevis will continue to provide support for and assistance to Taiwan in the future.
Minister Harris said the extraordinary accomplishments of Taiwan are known throughout the world. He said the people of the two countries enjoy freedom, democracy and human rights. He also spoke of how his nation cherishes its alliance with Taiwan and that Taiwan is his nation's best friend and partner. Minister Harris said his nation will continue to support Taiwan's participation in the international community and hopes that Taiwan in the future will become a member of international organizations.