Taiwan president kicks off St Kitts and Nevis visit

The China Airlines aircraft touched down at the Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport sometime after 9:40 p.m. on Saturday (July 13, 2019) signalling the official start of a state visit by President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Her Excellency Dr. Tsai Ing-wen to the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris was waiting at the bottom of aeroplane staircase to welcome President Tsai for the July 13 to 16 visit. Having exchanged cordial greetings, the President then stepped onto a saluting dais for a Military Salute from an honour guard comprised of soldiers from the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force, the Coast Guard Unit, and officers from the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force.

The first female president of Taiwan was then introduced to a number of dignitaries' including members of the Cabinet. A large contingent of Taiwanese nationals living in St. Kitts was on hand to eagerly welcome the head of their country to their adopted home.

While in St. Kitts and Nevis, President Tsai will witness some of the cooperative projects between the two islands. She will also participate in several activities on both islands. Such activities in Nevis will include a luncheon hosted by Premier of Nevis, the Honourable Mark Brantley, a groundbreaking ceremony at the site for Pinney's Beach Recreation Park; laying of a wreath at the Christena Disaster Memorial and a visit to the Museum of Nevis History, and Hamilton House.

In St. Kitts, the president is expected to witness the Signing Ceremony of a Technical and Vocational Education Cooperation Agreement; tour Government House; engage in a tree-planting ceremony and attend a State Banquet. Dr. Tsai Ing-wen will also visit the Brimstone Hill Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in St. Kitts. She will learn about the history of the Fortress, the restoration work that has been undertaken there, and attend a showcase of local culture, dance and music. She will also visit the Berkeley Memorial in Basseterre.

Included in the visiting delegation from Taiwan are business officials who will explore potential investment and trade opportunities.

Taiwan was the first county to establish diplomatic relations with the twin-island federation after it gained Independence in 1983. The ROC has made tremendous contributions in several areas including national security, information and communication technology, public infrastructure, education, sport, agriculture, health and many more.

St. Kitts and Nevis is the second island to be visited in this Caribbean tour. Earlier today (July 13) President Tsai made a brief stop in Haiti. After leaving St. Kitts and Nevis, the president visits St. Vincent and the Grenadines from July 16 to 17 and then Saint Lucia from July 19 to 21.