President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) departs Belize

This evening, the President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) , Dr. Tsai Ing-wen, departed the country after spending three days in the Jewel. The President arrived in the country on Sunday and participated in numerous diplomatic activities. The visit, which was the President’s first since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, was aimed at strengthening the diplomatic and economic ties between Taiwan and Belize. Reporter Vejea Alvarez tells us more. 

Hon. John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize: “Que viva Taiwan. Que viva Belice.”

Vejea Alvarez, Love News: That was the basis on which the President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Dr.Tsai Ing-Wen visited Belize. Today the president, her delegation of government officials and international journalists departed the country after an eventful three day official visit. The self governing island nation has shared thirty four years of diplomatic relations with Belize and intends to continue building on that friendship. Last night the Museum of Belize was illuminated with red and blue lights as Prime Minister John Briceño held a dinner in the president’s honor. The banquet served as an opportunity to thank the people and Government of Taiwan for their countless contribution towards Belize’s national development according to PM Briceño.

Hon. John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize: “This visit has been one more step in the strengthening of our excellent relationship. Today Belize and Taiwan remain united by our cooperation efforts but more so by our belief in those great causes like freedom, democracy, peace, betterment of our people and the rule of law.”

Vejea Alvarez, Love News:  The president’s visit comes a year after PM Briceño and his delegation traveled to Taiwan. President Tsai explained that her country’s decision to return the act of kindness is a testament to the commitment of the Taiwanese people to assist in Belize’s national development.

Dr. Tsai Ing-Wen, President of the Republic of China (Taiwan): “I recall receiving Prime Minister Briceño and his delegation in Taipei in March when we discussed the possibilities of collaborative projects in Belize. Now I am delighted to be here to personally witness our ideas becoming a reality.” 

Vejea Alvarez, Love News:  And the fruits of that discussion were displayed last night. During the dinner the Ministers of Immigration, Health and the area representative for Belize Rural North were presented with a design model of the proposed San Pedro general hospital that will be built through funding from the Taiwanese Government.

Dr. Tsai Ing-Wen, President of the Republic of China (Taiwan): “The San Pedro general hospital is one example of this reality for which we signed the MOU in January this year. We hope that this facility fulfills a need for accessible, comprehensive medical services both for residents and for visitors in Belize’s most popular tourist destination.”

Vejea Alvarez, Love News: Both Prime Minister Briceno and President Tsai expressed their commitment to a fruitful, respectful and continuous friendship between Belize and Taiwan.  The president and her delegation departed the Philip Goldson International Airport this afternoon en route to the United States. President Tsai will be meeting with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy before returning home.”