Taipei, Jan. 8 (CNA) Visiting Gambian President Yahya Jammeh reaffirmed Monday the close and solid relations between the Republic of The Gambia and the Republic of China, saying that his country will never betray the ROC.
Jammeh made the reaffirmation while holding talks with ROC President Chen Shui-bian at the Presidential Office shortly after a grand welcome with full military honors at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall complex presided over by Chen.
"Gambia, deeply grateful for all the assistance offered by the ROC, will never turn its back on the island country," he stressed, adding that he is convinced that bilateral diplomatic ties will be further solidified based upon the universal value of freedom, democracy and justice.
"Despite the great geographic distance separating Gambia from the ROC, the reciprocally beneficial cooperation model has set a good example for other nations in the international arena," the Gambian head of state continued.
Jammeh, who arrived in Taipei Monday for a six-day state visit at the invitation of the ROC government, voiced the hope that his trip will lead to a better understanding between the two countries and upgrade bilateral friendly and cooperative relations.
For his part, Chen extended again his warm welcome to his guest on behalf of ROC government and people, saying that Jammeh's visit to Taipei--his third--shows that his government attaches great importance to its diplomatic links with the ROC.
Since they restored diplomatic relations in 1995, the two countries have worked together to bolster political, economic and social developments through various cooperative projects, thus setting an exemplary model of bilateral cooperation for the international community.
"During Jammeh's six-day stay in Taipei, both parties can exchange views on the current international situation and other issues of mutual concern," Chen noted, adding that he hopes the bilateral talks will be conducive to further strengthening Taipei-Banjul relations under existing foundations.
Chen also spoke highly of Jammeh's able leadership, which he believed has contributed to Gambia's impressive achievements in economic development and social reform.
During the meeting, Chen, who took office in Taiwan's first peaceful transition of power between different political parties last May, also stressed that the ROC new government will honor all of its promises and obligations under various cooperative projects signed with the West African country, including agricultural technology assistance, vocational training and infrastructure construction.