Chen Shui-bian has promised his new Government will maintain 'continuity' in its foreign policy and adhere to treaties signed by the outgoing Kuomintang-led administration.
Mr Chen made the pledge yesterday at a meeting with 12 ambassadors and consuls from nations maintaining formal diplomatic links with Taipei.
Twenty-nine countries, mostly impoverished states in Central America, the Caribbean, Oceania and Africa, recognise Taipei instead of Beijing.
'The Republic of China shall continue adhering to all treaties signed with the different countries, as well as all agreements and co-operation projects,' Mr Chen said. The meeting was broadcast live on local television.
Some of Taiwan's allies had feared Taipei might rescind generous aid programmes when Mr Chen took over on May 20.
Mr Chen's vice-president, Annette Lu Hsiu-lien, had promised to abandon Taipei's 'chequebook diplomacy' war with Beijing in favour of other strategies.