Taiwan welcomes Swaziland king with military salute ceremony
2015/05/19 14:10:38
Taipei, May 19 (CNA) Taiwan held a military salute ceremony Tuesday to welcome King Mswati III of Swaziland, one of the country's three diplomatic allies in Africa.
President Ma Ying-jeou officiated at the 21-gun salute at the plaza of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall to extend a warm welcome to the king of Swaziland, who is on his 15th visit to Taiwan.
In his remarks, Ma said the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Swaziland have maintained cooperative projects ranging from agricultural assistance to medical services. He also expressed hope that both countries will advance bilateral relations in the future.
In response, the king of Swaziland said his country and the ROC have maintained diplomatic ties for 46 years, and he hoped the relations will continue.
His 15th visit to Taiwan is the opportunity for both sides to discuss issues of mutual concern, he said at the ceremony, which was also attended by senior Taiwanese government officials and foreign ambassadors to Taiwan.
Noting the importance of bilateral ties, he said that cooperation with the ROC has helped improve Swaziland's economy and infrastructure, citing a new international airport in Swaziland as an example of bilateral cooperation.
His country is "very grateful" for the ROC's assistance, he said.
Meanwhile, the king reaffirmed that his country will continue to support Taiwan's efforts to expand its international participation.
Following the military ceremony, the president later received the king at the Presidential Office.
During his five-day visit that ends Thursday, the king is also scheduled to meet with Foreign Minister David Lin (林永樂) to discuss bilateral relations.
On May 21, economic officials with the king's delegation will attend an investment seminar to introduce business opportunities in the southern African country.
(By Elaine Hou)
