The president of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Tsai Ing-Wen is in Belize. There was a grand celebration for her at the airport when she arrived. Courtney Weatherburne has the story.

The Belizean and Taiwanese flags were raised high at the PGIA this afternoon. Below the fluttering flags, was a group of by-standers anxiously awaiting the arrival of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-Wen.

The crisp-uniformed BDF marched along to the beat of their drums. And then at around 2:40 the China airlines flight touched down on the tarmac.

Governor General of Belize Sir Colville Young, Foreign Affairs Minister Wilfred Elrington and Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte walked over to greet her as she alighted the plane with her grand press delegation.

There was also a BDF helicopter fly over, and after that, it was all about niceties and formalities. It was a special state visit – one that Belizeans as well Taiwanese- Belizeans heartily embraced.

Jason Chan - Taiwanese-Belizean
"It is a very honoured to see our president visiting Belize, we're very happy to see her here."

Reporter
"What was it like? Did you ever thing you would meet her? Tell us a bit more, that experience."

Jason Chan
"It's definitely one of a kind experience you know, especially the president being in front of you and then we're able to handshake and it's right in front of us. Normally you'll see the president on the TV but today it's right here."

Andy - Taiwanese-Belizean
"It is always good to have your leader come to Belize and support, we just want everyone in Taiwan to know that all though we are in foreign part, we care about our country and we still support our homeland."

After she settled in, she attended the 2018 Taiwanese Scholarship Awards Ceremony at 5:10 at the Radisson. She is probably meeting with the Governor General Sir Colville Young right now, that meeting started at 6:30. There will also be a Special Joint Sitting of the House of Representatives and the Senate tomorrow morning at 10:00 and then in the afternoon at 2:30 President Wen will visit the ITVET in Belize City. President Wen leaves on Saturday.