October 8, 2016
No.228
His Holiness Pope Francis conveyed his congratulations to President Tsai Ing-wen on the celebration of the 105th National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan) forwarded in a note verbale by the Apostolic Nunciature of the Holy See in Taipei on October 5, 2016. In the note, Pope Francis extends his heartfelt greetings to both President Tsai and to the people of Taiwan, and prays “that all may continue to build up the common good in the pursuit of peace,” concluding by wishing the president and her fellow compatriots “an abundance of divine blessings.” Monsignor Slađan Ćosić, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Apostolic Nunciature, also wished President Tsai and the people of Taiwan “many memorable moments of the celebration as well as good health, peace and prosperity.” The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan) expresses its heartfelt appreciation to His Holiness Pope Francis and Monsignor Slađan Ćosić for their congratulations.
The ROC and the Holy See enjoy long-standing diplomatic relations, close cooperation and interaction, and frequent high-level exchanges and visits. Vice President Chen Chien-jen made a fruitful visit to the Holy See as a special envoy to attend the canonization ceremony of Blessed Mother Teresa in early September, furthering bilateral interaction and friendship. (E)