St. Kitts PM Drew visits Taiwan, lauds its 'remarkable achievements'

Taipei, Nov. 13 (CNA) Saint Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Terrance Drew said on arrival in Taipei on Thursday that he has a deep appreciation for Taiwan's "remarkable achievements" in multiple areas, which can serve as a model for his country.

Drew, who is on his third visit to Taiwan since taking office in 2022, is scheduled to meet with President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and witness the forging of sister city relationships between the SKN capital of Basseterre and two Taiwan cities -- Taipei and Tainan -- according to Taiwan's foreign ministry.

The previous two visits "left me with a deep appreciation for Taiwan's remarkable achievements in technology, innovation, science, and education, and this visit is no different," he told reporters upon arrival at Taoyuan International Airport, where he was welcomed by Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍).

"Each engagement provides us, as a young and ambitious nation, with an opportunity to learn, grow, and explore new ways to advance our own development," Drew said.

"As we continue this longstanding friendship, Saint Kitts and Nevis remains steadfast in its support for Taiwan, especially in ensuring that your invaluable contributions to global peace, development, and innovation receive the recognition and inclusion they deserve in the international community," he added.

The visiting SKN delegation includes the prime minister's wife Diani Prince-Drew, the country's Foreign Minister Denzil Douglas, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister's Office Naeemah Hazelle, and Ambassador-at-large Leon Natta-Nelson.

During their five-day stay, their agenda includes a formal meeting with Foreign Minister Lin, as well as with President Lai.