St. Kitts and Nevis: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew was welcomed to Taiwan to engage in bilateral discussions on matters of mutual interest. The engagement signifies the continuous strong bond of friendship.
On his arrival to Taiwan, PM Drew expressed that he is glad to be officially welcomed at the meet. He reached there with other official delegations and with a grand Military Honours Ceremony at the Presidential Office in Taipei.
Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis expressed that this was the first Military Honours Ceremony that has to be held since President Lai’s inauguration in May.
In consideration, Drew became the first head of government to visit Taiwan on a state visit since President Lai Ching-te took the pledge and engaged in a landmark meeting with the Taiwanese President on Monday, June 24, 2024.
The gathering is a crucial encounter that underlined the enduring partnership between the two nations that emphasised the mutual interests and extensive cooperation across various sectors. It is a pivotal move to fortify the bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew said that their presence is a testament to the enduring and robust bonds between St. Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan. More than forty-years, the countries have shared a deep and meaningful partnership that built on the principles of democracy, mutual respect and shared values.
PM of St. Kitts and Nevis emphasised on the recent achievements and future plans, especially in healthcare and sustainability. He shared the success of the signing ceremony for the new climate-smart JNF General Hospital that has been set to become the flagship hospital in St. Kitts and Nevis and the cornerstone of a comprehensive ‘health city’.
He added that the initiative marks the inception of a transformative endeavour to establish a comprehensive ‘health city’ in St. Kitts and Nevis. the goal is to serve the local populace, neighbouring islands and visitors, redefining healthcare accessibility and quality in St. Kitts and Nevis and the Caribbean region.
Furthermore, Dr. Drew invited President Lai of Taiwan to officially open the hospital upon its completion, which was accepted graciously.
However, the collaboration with Taiwan’s Overseas Engineering and Construction Company (OECC) on the hospital project was highlighted as a testament to the deep bonds of cooperation. Prime Minister Drew extended his gratitude for Taiwan’s continued support in healthcare, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
PM of St. Kitts and Nevis re-affirmed the support for Taiwan’s inclusion in international for a including the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Notably, President of Taiwan Lai Ching-te appreciated the partnership and expressed the eagerness to explore the new avenues for collaboration, especially referring to education, renewable energy and technology. The meeting set the stage for deeper cooperation with both the leaders that were committed to foster the growth and prosperity for their people.