Willy Alberto Gomez Tirado, outgoing ambassador of Guatemala to the ROC (Taiwan), was awarded the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon Aug. 16 in recognition of his extensive efforts to strengthen relations between the two sides.
 
Foreign Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu, who presented the state honor on behalf of President Tsai Ing-wen, praised Gomez for tirelessly promoting bilateral friendship since he took office in September 2019. His contributions in boosting cooperation in areas spanning arts, culture, investment, sports, tourism and trade have greatly enhanced rapport among the two countries’ people, he said.
 
Wu also took the opportunity to thank Guatemala President Alejandro Giammattei and the Central American ally’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their timely support of Taiwan during China’s recent military provocations.
 
In response, Gomez expressed gratitude for receiving the state honor. Taiwan is a close friend of Guatemala that is always willing and able to help, he said, citing the country’s assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
The two countries enjoy a solid relationship based on the shared values of freedom and democracy, Gomez said, adding that he believes ties will continue to strengthen in the generations to come.


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Source: Taiwan Today (https://taiwantoday.tw/index.php)