Taipei, Jan. 15 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian received Monday a six-member Costa Rican parliamentary delegation led by Parliamentary Speaker Rina Contreras.
Chen first expressed his concern over the safety of the staff of the Costa Rican Embassy in El Salvador, which was struck by a 7.6-magnitude earthquake early Sunday morning, claiming hundreds of lives.
Chen described Contreras, the second female Costa Rican parliamentary speaker since the parliament's establishment 149 years ago, as an outstanding woman who has spared no efforts to support the Republic of China while holding the post of chairwoman of the Costa Rican parliament's Foreign Relations Committee.
He said he hopes the ROC and Costa Rica will strengthen exchanges in various fields to promote the welfare of the people of both countries.
Chen noted that he first visited Costa Rica 16 years ago when he served as a Taipei City councilor. He also included Costa Rica on his itinerary for a visit to friendly nations last year, an indication that the ROC values bilateral diplomatic relations.
He went on to say that he is deeply impressed by Costa Rica's great strides in economic, political and social development. Chen asked Contreras to convey his regards to Costa Rican President Miguel Angel Rodriguez and invited Rodriguez to visit the ROC again.
Contreras thanked Chen for his concern and said all the staff of the Costa Rican embassy in El Salvador had been evacuated safely. She said Costa Rica views the ROC's achievements in economic development and its people's resolute will in the defense of democracy as a model. The government and people of Costa Rica also deeply appreciate the ROC for its assistance in various fields over the years, she said, adding that she believes future relations between the two countries will be further promoted on the present sound foundation.
Chiu Jung-nan, vice minister of foreign affairs, and Eugene Chien, deputy secretary-general to the president, were also present at the meeting.