I would like to thank Governor-General Tapley Seaton and all of you for the warm welcome. In the past two years, we have had the honor of receiving Governor-General Seaton, Prime Minister Timothy Sylvester Harris, as well as many other high-level officials from Saint Christopher and Nevis in Taiwan. I am very pleased to reciprocate by visiting your beautiful country as an important chapter of my Journey of Freedom, Democracy and Sustainability.
To be awarded the Order of Saint Christopher and Nevis is truly a special privilege. This serves as ultimate recognition of the longstanding friendship and close partnership between our two countries.
In fact, the Republic of China (Taiwan) was the first country with which Saint Christopher and Nevis established formal diplomatic ties after its independence in 1983. At that time, Governor-General Seaton came to Taiwan for related negotiations and played a key role in ensuring their success. To receive this tremendous honor from you, Governor-General, is therefore extraordinarily meaningful to me and my country.
Since 1983, Taiwan and Saint Christopher and Nevis have cooperated in areas such as agriculture, healthcare and ICT. We have also worked together to cultivate talented professionals through scholarship programs and vocational education.
In line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, all of these joint efforts have enhanced the wellbeing of both peoples and advanced peace, prosperity and sustainable development. In the future, our two countries will continue to pursue these shared ideals and objectives.
I would also like to thank the government of Saint Christopher and Nevis for its longstanding support of Taiwan in the international arena. You showed people worldwide that Taiwan not only acts as a responsible member of the global village, but is also ready and willing to proactively contribute to international affairs.
Governor-General Seaton, I hope you will continue to extend your greatest support to Taiwan, so that we stand shoulder to shoulder on the international stage and do our part to create a better future for all.
I wish you the very best of health and happiness. May Taiwan and Saint Christopher and Nevis enjoy continued prosperity and everlasting friendship. Thank you.