Taipei, March 12 (CNA) Republic of China President Chen Shui-bian met Saint Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Denzil Douglas Monday and thanked him for his nation's long-term support for ROC participation in international organizations such as the United Nations.
Chen added that although St. Kitts, formerly St. Christopher, is a small country with a limited population, it has been the most vocal in championing justice for Taiwan.
In response, Douglas thanked the Republic of China for its assistance over the years and said that the two countries face different challenges. He expressed his respect for Chen's contributions to Taiwan's struggle for democracy and added that St. Kitts will continue to speak out on behalf of Taiwan in the international community and help it become a member of the United Nations.
Douglas went on to say that while his nation's economy is centered on the sugar industry, it is gradually developing its financial, tourism and other service industries. He welcomed ROC companies to invest in St. Kitts.
Chen responded that Taiwan, a major cane sugar exporter in the 1950s and 1960s, will share its successful agricultural experience with St. Kitts, and that he will encourage local businessmen to visit the Caribbean nation to survey the investment environment.
Douglas arrived in Taipei Saturday for an eight-day official visit. He is scheduled to tour several economic and cultural establishments during his stay.