As he had indicated before his departure, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves was accorded an audience with President Tsai Ing-wen, during his recent visit to Taiwan.
The October 11 meeting came as the two countries marked 35 years of diplomatic relations, something that did not miss President Tsai Ing-wen, who, in recognizing same, described SVG as "Taiwan’s most loyal diplomatic ally in the Eastern Caribbean region”.
The President took the opportunity to congratulate Dr Gonsalves on leading his Unity Labour Party to a fourth consecutive victory in the general elections of December 2015.
President Ing-wen also observed that the SVG delegation’s visit to coincide with National Day celebrations in Taiwan, demonstrated the seriousness with which SVG values the relationship.
Of particular significance for Taiwan was, according to the President, SVG’s sustained support for Taiwan in its efforts to participate in the activities of United Nations specialized agencies and other international bodies.
Reference was made to SVG’s annual support at the General Debate of the UN General Assembly, especially since 2001.
SVG’s support for Taiwan’s application for participation in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) was also noted.
Taiwan’s assistance to SVG was reviewed, including that country’s support for projects and programmes in infrastructure, agriculture, medical care, education, and culture.
Specific reference was made to Taiwan’s support for SVG’s largest infrastructure project currently underway—the Argyle International Airport Project — in particular the terminal building constructed by Taiwan’s Overseas Engineering & Construction Company .
The fact that since 2004, some 123 Vincentian students have benefited from study programmes in Taiwan, did not escape the observation of the President and her guest.
All in all, President Tsai stressed that Taiwan "highly values its friendly diplomatic ties and close cooperation with SVG, and expressed hope that bilateral relations will grow closer and continue to flourish”
