Taiwan Today
Date: June 24, 2016
President Tsai Ing-wen departed June 24 on a nine-day visit to Republic of China (Taiwan)
diplomatic allies Panama and Paraguay, her first overseas trip since taking office in May.
“My mission during this visit is to increase Taiwan’s international visibility, boost the confidence of those working on the frontlines of ROC diplomacy and strengthen Taiwan’s trade and economic cooperation with the Latin American countries based on reciprocity and mutual support,” Tsai said.
“Practical diplomacy is the government’s new approach to foreign relations, and we will work diligently, pragmatically and steadfastly toward achieving our goals.”
According to the president, the trip underscores the willingness of the people of Taiwan to contribute to the international community, as well as her administration’s commitment to promoting foreign relations. “Although Taiwan’s international space is at times restricted, our will to link with the world has no limits,” she said.
Citing the examples of Taiwan using its homegrown orchid industry technology to help Panama restore its national flower and undertake large-scale cultivation of butterfly orchids, Tsai said the trip goes beyond a market survey. [FULL STORY]