Taiwan Deputy Foreign Minister Baushuan Ger (葛葆萱) expressed gratitude for Guatemala's long-standing international support for Taiwan at a reception celebrating the 205th anniversary of Guatemala's independence. The event, held in Taipei on September 10, emphasized the two countries’ mutually beneficial alliance shared since 1934. Ger stated that Guatemala’s friendship has been crucial in helping Taiwan integrate into the world stage, and that he hopes for continued close cooperation between the two sides.

Ger pointed out that the deep relationship between Taiwan and Guatemala is built on shared values ​​of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. He said that over the years, the two sides have cooperated closely and achieved fruitful results in areas such as public health, trade, talent development, and infrastructure. Ger also mentioned that in the face of complex global politics and the expansion of authoritarianism, Taiwan will stand shoulder to shoulder with Guatemala, supporting national development priorities and working together towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

Incidentally, the Taiwan-Guatemala Free Trade Agreement, which came into effect in 2006, has entered its 20th year. Ger noted that Guatemala's exports to Taiwan have reached US$130 million for two consecutive years, demonstrating the enormous potential of the partnership. Guatemala has also become Taiwan's largest supplier of sugar and fourth-largest supplier of coffee. The government will continue to encourage more Taiwanese businesses to use Guatemala as an important hub for expanding into the South American market, contributing Taiwan's economic strength to Guatemala's industrial upgrading and job creation.

Guatemala Ambassador Luis Raúl Estévez López stated that Guatemala is currently attempting to expand its textile industry and integrate it into the semiconductor manufacturing process, thereby redefining its economic development model. He expressed gratitude for the support and assistance from Taiwan, the United States, and Japan. He outlined Guatemala and Taiwan’s increasingly close relations in the political, diplomatic, trade, military, economic, cultural, and technological spheres. The two countries will celebrate the 92nd anniversary of their unwavering diplomatic relations this December.