BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, AUGUST 22ND 2013 (CUOPM) – The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis and the Republic of China (Taiwan) have agreed to increase cooperation between both countries in several areas.
A communiqué signed by St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas and His Excellency President Ma Ying-jeou noted that both leaders during President Ma’s two-day State Visit to St. Kitts and Nevis, exchanged views on the current state of world affairs and matters of mutual concern.
President Ma extended his appreciation for the staunch support of the Government of St Christopher and Nevis for the efforts of the Republic of China to obtain its legal right to participate in international organizations.
He also stressed that the Republic of China supports the economic integration of the Caribbean region.
Prime Minister Douglas stated that he will call upon the United Nations to attach greater importance to the Republic of China’s legitimate status in the international community and also renewed his support for the Republic of China’s meaningful participation in the activities of UN specialized agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
President Ma lauded Prime Minister Douglas for his outstanding leadership and strenuous efforts to enrich his people’s lives, especially for his medical expertise and dedication to improving the health of his people, which has paved the way for his being chosen as the spokesman on health care and HIV/AIDS prevention in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
President Ma applauded St. Kitts and Nevis for seeking to transform its economy through tourism and stated that, as a long-term and sincere ally, the Republic of China will continue to help St. Kitts and Nevis form links between its agricultural and tourism industries, facilitate the development of renewable energy as well as information and communication technology locally, and share the ROC’s valuable economic development experiences with St. Kitts and Nevis.
Prime Minister Douglas extended his sincere appreciation to the Republic of China for assisting in the development of his country and thanked President Ma for showing concern about the economic development of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Dr. Douglas further expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Republic of China (Taiwan) for its assistance in various projects, such as the establishment of the Newton Ground Tourist Demonstration Farm which has added value and diversity to the tourism product.
He also extolled the willing collaboration of the Taiwan with his government in the Laptop Initiative for students and teachers, which has greatly enhanced access to technology.
Prime Minister Douglas also expressed sincere appreciation to the Republic of China (Taiwan) for assisting in the development of renewable energy and alternative energy technology, which will advance the goal of becoming a green economy and reduce dependence on fossil fuel.
He also offered special commendation to President Ma’s administration for partnering with the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis in the establishment of the Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport Solar Farm, the installation of the Solar PV on the rooftop of Government Headquarters and solar and LED street lights on two major roads in St Kitts.
Dr. Douglas also expressed deep appreciation for other tangible expressions of goodwill and cooperation in the areas of agriculture, education and security which have benefited the populace.
Both leaders also witnessed the signing of a bilateral extradition treaty so as to further reduce crime and preserve social order.
They conveyed their earnest gratitude for the sincere friendship and close cooperation between the two countries and stressed that they will continue to cooperate with each other in the hope of enhancing the common interests of their two peoples.
President Ma expressed the assurances of his highest consideration and earnest gratitude to Prime Minister Douglas and the Government and People of St. Kitts and Nevis for the hospitality and courtesy accorded to him and the members of his delegation.