President Stephen of the Republic of Nauru made a national visit to Taiwan, on August 7th . Mayor Hu treated the President to a classic treat, sour cabbage hot pot. According to Mayor Hu, Mr. President really enjoyed the luncheon and felt this kind of meal was especially healthy, in particular he like the fresh shrimp. Both men appeared quite relaxed in the festive atmosphere.

Originally, the city government had planned the banquet in the Splendor Hotel, but later changed the plan to the hot pot restaurant. Mayor Hu explained that he did not intend to take advantage of the business operator. Although the hotel fully sponsored the banquet, it was decided to choose a place the city government could afford. He also stressed his sincerity in welcoming the President regardless of how much was spent. It was the first time for him to receive a president from a state maintaining a formal diplomatic tie with Taiwan.

Mayor Hu revealed that Bruth Fuh, the Ambassador of our country in Nauru, bought a hot pot 2 or 3 decades ago, but never used it because he was always overseas. The President joked about cooking hot pot for Ambassador Fuh when returning to Nauru. Later, Mayor Hu bought the President a special Taichung dessert, sweet bean ice, thinking the hot pot may be too hot for summer.

When President Stephen arrived at the restaurant, Mayor Hu was held up midway by traffic control and was unable to welcome the President in person. Arriving late, Mayor Hu reported to the President humorously that he was delayed by his police colleagues in his own Taichung City just to welcome the President on his visit. The President laughed and expressed his understanding after hearing the story.

Mayor Hu had traditional Taichung souvenirs for the visitors, including 2 bottles of healthy vinegar, a pair of gift cups, as well as sun and pineapple cakes.