An indigenous Fijian province says it would welcome closer links with Taiwan following the transit visit of its president, Chen Shui-bian, through Nadi last week.
The chairman of the Kadavu Provincial Council, Ratu Josateki Nawalowalo, says Fiji should open its doors to all friendly countries which are prepared to help build its economy, and promote trade and investment.
Ratu Josateki says political differences between China and Taiwan should not get in the way of Fiji's social and economic needs.
Ratu Josateki says he welcomes Taiwan or any other country which provides a window of opportunity that would help in taking Fiji's economy forward.
He says Taiwan could help fast track the 18-million US dollar Integrated Development Plan in his island province about 80 kilometres south of Suva.
Ratu Josateki says China is a communist country while Taiwan and Fiji are democratic countries which are willing to engage in development and cultural pursuits of common benefit to their people.
He says China has broken all diplomatic rules by publicly crucifying Fiji's sovereignty and that of other vulnerable Pacific island states on its One-China Policy.
