Office of the President Republic of China(Taiwan)

Taipei, July 17 (CNA) Visiting Nicaraguan President Arnoldo Aleman Lacayo hosted a dinner at a Taipei hotel in honor of Republic of China President Chen Shui-bian to express his gratitude for the kind treatment accorded him during his stay in the country.

Speaking on the occasion, Chen said that Nicaragua has always given its firm support to the ROC in the international arena, with Aleman speaking in favor of the country's bid to join the United Nations at annual U.N. meetings.

The ROC will treasure its traditional friendship with Nicaragua, Chen noted, adding that he hopes Aleman will continue to support the ROC during his service as a member of the Centramerican Parliament after he steps down in January next year.

Earlier in the day, the Nicaraguan head of state also called on former ROC President Lee Teng-hui and main opposition Kuomintang Chairman Lien Chan to exchange views on issues of mutual concern.

Traveling at the head of a 30-member delegation, Aleman arrived in Taipei Sunday for a four-day state visit at Chen's invitation. Aleman and his entourage were scheduled to leave Taipei Wednesday.