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Photo above: From left to right: St. Lucia Prime Minister, Dr. Kenny Anthony; Belize Prime Minister,, Dean Barrow; President Ma Ying-jeou: St. Kitts-Nevis Prime Minister, Dr. Timothy Harris; and Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.
CASTRIES, St. Lucia, Mar. 17, (CMC) – The extension of Taiwanese assistance in the field of national security was the main talking point, when St. Lucia Prime Minister, Dr. Kenny Anthony, met with outgoing Taiwanese President, Ma Ying-jeou, in Belize, yesterday.
Details of the discussions were not immediately available, but a government spokesman said, further discussions on security-related issues will be held with the new administration later this year.
Taiwan is rated by many indices, including those furnished by the FBI and World Bank, as one of the safest nations on the planet, with exceedingly low crime levels.
The highlight of the trip, was the bilateral meeting with President Ma, during which Anthony thanked the Taiwanese leader for his friendship and support.
Specifically, the Prime Minister spoke of assistance given by the Republic of China (Taiwan) in culture, community transformation, health, technology, and education.
A joint statement noted, that both President Ma and Prime Minister Anthony remarked on the close friendship they have developed over the years, mirroring the friendship between their two countries.
“It is never easy to say goodbye to a friend; but that is what we must do. You are representing your country, as President, but you are also a friend — a reliable friend, and a trustworthy friend.
“In our country you have changed lives. Politicians are really remembered for their ability to impact on the lives of others. The test is very simple.
“I look back on the time I have spent in office and I ask, have I changed the quality of the lives of the citizens of my country for the better? In St Lucia, you have certainly impacted on the lives of our people, and you are fondly thought of.
“When history reflects on what you have achieved, in terms of international relations, in Asia and beyond, you will be remembered as a great man, and a man of peace. I have no doubt that history will be kind to you when that time comes.
“On behalf of the Government and people of St. Lucia, I want to thank you. Not just as one leader to another, sharing views, sharing ideas. I want to thank you as a friend,” Anthony noted.
During the course of his visit, Anthony also held a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of Belize, Dean Barrow.
He also attended a round-table discussion with President Ma; Prime Minister Barrow; Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Timothy Harris; and Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.
