Marshall Islands' speaker greeted by President Chen

President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) welcomed Marshall Islands Parliament Speaker Litokwa Tomeing yesterday and expressed his appreciation for enhanced bilateral relations.

Chen noted that since the two nations established diplomatic relations in November 1998, they have enjoyed close and friendly relations.

The Marshall Islands has staunchly supported Taiwan and spoken out for it on various international occasions, particularly in support of its bid to enter such international organizations as the UN and WHO.

The president also noted that Tomeing is following in the footsteps of Marshall Islands President Kessai Note and Foreign Affairs Minister Gerald Zackios in visiting Taiwan, which provides evidence of the close and solid relations between the two nations.

He said that Taiwan and the Marshall Islands are both Pacific countries that are rich with marine resources and that both believe in the universal values of democracy and freedom. Both are also strategic partners of the US, which Chen said gives them a common interest in upholding security, peace and stability in the region.

Tomeing told Chen that he was impressed during his brief visit to Kaohsiung and that the development of the city based on its harbor and industry could be an example for his own country.