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Taiwan Ambassador says PM Douglas not involved in negotiations for Official Residence, says Democrat article “groundless, irresponsible and regrettable”
~~Adz:Left~~ BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, (CUOPM) – The Ambassador of the Republic of China on Taiwan, His Excellency John Liu said Thursday that at no time was the Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas included in any negotiations for the leasing of the premises which now house the Ambassador’s Residence.
Ambassador Liu at a Press Conference said the March 8th article in the newspaper “The Democrat,” owned by the opposition People’s Action Movement (PAM), accusing Taiwan of aiding dictatorship and corruption “is groundless, irresponsible and regrettable.”
“With regards to the issue of Ambassador’s Residence, it is purely a commercial lease (and) at no time was the Prime Minister included in any negotiations for the leasing of the premises. We pay rent in accordance with fair market value. There is absolutely no secret arrangement between the Embassy and the Prime Minister,” said Ambassador Liu at the Press Conference in response to the article headlined, 'Taiwan: Aiding Dictatorship.
Ambassador Liu said that Taiwan and St. Kitts and Nevis have enjoyed 24 years of friendly relations.
“Over the past two decades, we have tried our best to help our diplomatic ally improve the well-being of its people through the implementation of wide-scope projects in Agriculture (technical mission and newly commissioned agro-processing center), Health (ambulances and equipment), Education (scholarships and other programs), Computer Equipment, the Police (vehicles, bikes, and other policing tools), the establishment of the ICT Center, 13 Community Centers around the island, Warner Park Stadium, Bird Rock Athletic Stadium, Airport Expansion and other social programs,” said the top Taiwanese diplomat in the twin-island Federation.
“We regard St. Kitts and Nevis as our best friend and equal partner,” said Ambassador Liu, who added that the Republic of China on Taiwan is proud of the collaboration with the island and “we appreciate the friendship from the Government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis in assisting Taiwan to have a voice in the international community.”
Ambassador Liu stressed that Taiwan and St. Kitts and Nevis share the common value of promoting freedom, democracy and transparency.
“We have no intention to be involved in local politics or to interfere with the internal affairs of the Federation,” he added.
St. Kitts and Nevis students studying in the Republic of China on Taiwan with Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas and members of his delegation during a visit to Taiwan. (Photos by Erasmus Williams)
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