Foreign minister Ou optimistic on Taiwan ties with Panama
(etaiwannews.com) Republic of China Minister of Foreign Affairs Francisco H.L. Ou expressed optimism Sunday about the future of ties between his country and Panama - one of Taiwan's diplomatic allies in Central America.
Ou made the remarks in an interview with CNA in Panama City. He arrived there earlier in the day for a two-day visit, which he said is aimed at acquiring knowledge of the incoming Panamanian government's policies and top priorities.
He reiterated the ROC government's willingness to reinforce cooperation with its ally.
Speaking of the outlook for Taiwan-Panama ties, Ou said he believes they will continue on a stable and solid basis, given that the two countries have maintained friendship since 1954.
During his stay, Ou said, he will visit President-elect Ricardo Martinelli and his appointed foreign affairs minister, Juan Carlos Varela, for talks that will allow him to find out the country's development needs, as well as exchange views on future cooperation between the two countries.
He will also give a briefing on Taiwan's development and offer Taiwanese assistance in helping Panama promote its economic development, Ou said.
Martinelli and Varela will assume office July 1.
Ou said the ROC wants to cooperate fully with the new government of Panama.
Asked about Martinelli's earlier statement that he would reconsider Panama's relations with China if elected, Ou said he believes the president-elect will continue his country's ties with Taiwan.
Meanwhile, faced with pleas from several Taiwanese expatriates not to close the consulate-general office in Panama's Colon, Ou explained that the decision to shut down the facility was taken to make better use of Taiwan's limited diplomatic resources. He noted that Colon is just a one-hour drive from Panama City, where the ROC Embassy can offer all the necessary services.
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Original Source: http://www.etaiwannews.com/etn/news_content.php?id=977546&lang=eng_news
Date Retrieved: June 16, 2009.
