TAIPEI (Taiwan News) -- During a visit by Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文), the Parliament of Nauru on Monday (March 25) passed a resolution which rejected Beijing's "one China principle" and "one country, two systems" framework, and recognized Taiwan as an independent country, reported CNA.

Immediately after Tsai delivered a speech to the Parliament of Nauru on Monday, the governing body passed a resolution read aloud by Nauru President Baron Divavesi Waqa. In the resolution, Waqa said that the country rejects the "one China" principle and the "one country, two systems" framework, and recognized Taiwan as a sovereign and independent nation.

Waqa is the first head of a foreign country to publicly express opposition in a parliament to Beijing's "one country, two systems" framework. In his speech, Waqa said that Taiwan and Nauru share the values of freedom and democracy, and thanked Taiwan for its assistance to his country.

Waqa said that the Nauru government will fully support Taiwan's participation in international conferences to achieve the goal of sustainable development. He also said that his country looks forward to deepening bilateral cooperation and lasting friendship in the future with Taiwan.

In response, Tsai said that before departing for the island nation, she had watched a film in which Waqa welcomed her to the country. She said that she was greatly impressed by Nauru's affection and enthusiasm for Taiwan.

Tsai added that Nauru is a "super good friend" of Taiwan. At the ceremony, Waqa presented Tsai with a feather lei and set of commemorative stamps.

In exchange, Tsai presented Waqa with the Order of Brilliant Jade with Grand Cordon to recognize his contribution to the friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

After the ceremony, the two heads of state held bilateral talks in which they exchanged views on the issue of cooperation between Taiwan and Nauru.