Jaushieh Joseph Wu
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Republic of China (Taiwan)
November 12, 2021
(As delivered)
Ladies and gentlemen:
It is a pleasure to join you virtually for the 2021 Saint Lucia-Taiwan Partnership Trade Show. Taiwan and Saint Lucia have held this event for 14 consecutive years. It has grown into the premier business event of the Eastern Caribbean region and the best avenue for Saint Lucia's enterprises to connect to the world. Moreover, this event also exemplifies our mutually beneficial partnership and promotes the development and prosperity of our two countries.
This year's trade show features the theme “Propelling Business Development through Technology.” It combines physical and virtual elements in order to enhance business-matching capabilities of companies amid the pandemic. The governments of Taiwan and Saint Lucia have assisted more than 60 companies to participate in the event and further explore new business opportunities. I am confident that, through our joint efforts, we will raise bilateral economic relations to new heights.
As the world's 21st-largest economy, Taiwan is well known for its dynamic and competitive SMEs, which serve as the backbone of any thriving economy. I am excited that the Taiwan-sponsored Youth and Women's Employment, Empowerment and Financial Inclusion Project will soon be rolled out in Saint Lucia. I believe this will be instrumental in promoting local SMEs, reviving the post-pandemic economy, and enhancing the roles of women and youth in the economic and social transformation of Saint Lucia.
In closing, I would like to extend my appreciation to the government of Saint Lucia under Prime Minister Pierre's outstanding leadership, as well as the business community in Saint Lucia, for dedicating their time and effort to make this trade show possible. I would also like to thank all the parties involved for contributing to its success. I wish you all the very best in your future endeavors, and I hope you enjoy the event. Thank you.