The Taiwanese President Chen Shui-bian says economic links between Taiwan and the Marshall Islands will further expand.
President Chen who is visiting the Marshalls, told local leaders that in the more than six years since the two nations established relations, they have promoted agriculture and fishing cooperation, attracted Taiwanese companies to invest in the Marshall Islands, funded infrastructure development and training programs, and expanded trade exchanges.
He said he is confident that these efforts have shown the government and people of the Marshall Islands that "Taiwan is indeed a sincere and trustworthy friend."
Talking about future expansion of ties, Chen said his country is focusing on the business sector.
He says Taiwan will help both small and medium sized enterprises in the Marshall Islands.
The President made specific mention of activities such as a private fishing ventures, as well as the repair of fishing vessels, an obvious indication of support for a large floating dry-dock that is planned by the Ching Fu Shipbuilding Company for Majuro later this year.
