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Costa Rica supports Taiwan's bid to join WTO, UN |
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August 20, 2000
SAN JOSE, Costa Rica (AP) - Costa Rica's president expressed support Friday for Taiwan's bid to become part of the United Nations and the World Trade Organization during a visit by the leader of the Asian island. "The acceptance of Taiwan into the WTO is a necessity because of the island's role in the new economy and international commerce," said Costa Rican President Miguel Angel Rodriguez. Taiwanese President Chen Shui-bian arrived Friday in Costa Rica, one of his stops during a two-week trip to several Central American, Caribbean and African countries that are among the island nation's diplomatic allies. He visited Nicaragua on Thursday and Friday. The trip is Chen's first since he took office, and it comes amid continuing tensions between China and Taiwan. The two split during a civil war in 1949, but China claims Taiwan as a part of its territory and says it should reunify with the mainland. Chinese leaders have threatened to use force to bring Taiwan under its control if necessary. Costa Rica is among 29 countries - mostly small, developing nations - that have established diplomatic relations with Taiwan. China fiercely opposes any activities - such as official U.S. visits for Taiwan's top leaders - that give the island increased international legitimacy. During his visit to Costa Rica, Chen said he will support all actions that help Costa Rica do business with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, of which Taiwan is a member. "Under my government, there will always exist the determination to increase ties between both countries," Chen said. A news conference was scheduled for Saturday, when Chen will also visit several Costa Rican businesses as well as a professional training center.
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