Premier Su Tseng-chang on Wednesday received a delegation led by Prime Minister Terrance Drew of the Federation of St. Christopher and Nevis. The premier thanked the prime minister for leading his country in speaking out on behalf of Taiwan at various international settings, and for his support for Taiwan's meaningful participation within UN organizations. Premier Su said that despite the severe military threat posed by China, Taiwan has stood firm and not only continues to develop a strong economy and care for the well-being of its people, but is also making contributions to the world. He hopes Prime Minister Drew will continue to support Taiwan's participation in international organizations and activities so that the two nations can jointly contribute on the international stage.
Prior to entering politics, Prime Minister Drew was an experienced physician and particularly values the health and well-being of the people of St. Kitts and Nevis. Premier Su said he admired Prime Minister Drew's plans to establish a national health insurance system and introduce other measures designed to benefit the health and well-being of his people.
The premier added that with COVID-19 still causing havoc around the world, thanks to Taiwan's comprehensive health insurance, robust public health care system and sufficient medical capacity, the government has not only provided the appropriate care to its people but also achieved continued economic growth during the pandemic. Taiwan stands ready to collaborate with St. Kitts and Nevis on any future plans relating to public health and welfare, and will do all that it can to provide assistance and improve the health of Kittitians and Nevisians, to strengthen the friendship and diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Prime Minister Drew said in his remarks that when St. Kitts and Nevis gained independence from Great Britain in September 1983, Taiwan established diplomatic relations with the nation the very next month. With the 40th anniversary of independence approaching next year, the prime minister has come to Taiwan during his first 100 days in office to thank Taiwan's government and demonstrate that the people of St. Kitts and Nevis really appreciate this strong friendship and relationship. The prime minister said Taiwan has an excellent national health insurance system, and he thus hopes for more cooperation to learn about Taiwan's successful experience in the health care field and help St. Kitts and Nevis smoothly establish its own national health insurance system.
Prime Minister Drew emphasized that the world needs to know about Taiwan's experience and accomplishments. In September, he specially devoted an entire section in his inaugural speech at the UN to advocate on behalf of Taiwan, and he plans to speak again on Taiwan's behalf at the 27th Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP27), creating an opportunity to have Taiwan's voice heard by the world.