President Tsai Ing-wen pledged to expand people-to-people and trade ties with New Mexico while receiving the U.S. state’s governor, Susana Martinez, at the Office of the President June 26 in Taipei City.
 
Substantial opportunities for mutually beneficial collaboration exist across a wide range of fields, and in particular green energy, Tsai said. Noting that New Mexico generated 30 percent of its power from renewables in January and February, she added that the state’s success in this regard and abundant natural resources highlight the potential for enhanced exchanges on energy policy and trade.
 
According to Tsai, committed efforts on both sides to deepening ties are evidenced by a reciprocal driver’s license agreement. This pact, the nation’s 26th with a U.S. state, is expected to further strengthen the bonds of friendship between the people of Taiwan and New Mexico, she said.
 
The accord was signed later the same day by Deputy Minister of Transportation and Communications Chi Wen-jong and Martinez. It allows legally certified drivers in Taiwan and the U.S. state to obtain licenses issued by the other side without sitting written or road tests.
 
Tsai thanked the governor for visiting the nation to conclude the agreement and also conveyed gratitude to New Mexico representatives and senators for passing legislation favorable to Taiwan, including resolutions voicing support for the country’s international participation. These efforts are bolstering the robust Taiwan-U.S. partnership, she added.
 
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Martinez is in Taiwan June 23-29 at the head of a seven-strong delegation. The group is scheduled to visit the Ministries of Economic Affairs, Foreign Affairs, and Transportation and Communications, the government-backed Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), and state-run industry heavyweights including CPC Corp., Taiwan and Taiwan Power Co. to explore opportunities for boosting cooperation in areas spanning culture, education, energy and trade, the MOFA said. (KWS-E)