VP Hsiao Bi-khim visits Palau to strengthen ties

Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim embarked on a five-day visit to Palau, one of Taiwan's three Pacific allies, aiming to deepen bilateral relations, boost local tourism, and assess the impact of Taiwanese-aided development projects. Upon her departure, Hsiao outlined her visit's objectives, stating that strengthening ties with Palau is President William Lai's primary directive.

Hsiao is scheduled to meet with Palauan President Surangel Whipps Jr. and other officials. She noted President Whipps Jr.'s consistent support for Taiwan, evidenced by his numerous visits to the island. "By also visiting [Palau], we hope to deepen our bonds," Hsiao remarked, underscoring the mutual desire to strengthen the relationship.

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President Whipps Jr has underscored the friendship between our two countries through concrete actions with his many visits to Taiwan since taking office. By also visiting [Palau], we hope to deepen our bonds.

The second objective of her trip involves promoting Palau's sustainable tourism. Hsiao plans to visit key tourist sites, hoping to inspire Taiwanese travelers to experience the country's natural beauty. The third focus is to review the progress of Taiwan's Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, which spans healthcare, fisheries, agriculture, and public infrastructure in Palau.

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Taiwan and Palau are both embraced by beautiful oceans and not only share universal values such as democracy, freedom and human rights, but have also collaborated closely for years in public health, agriculture and fisheries technology and climate change response, achieving significant results and establishing a solid foundation for bilateral cooperation.

President Lai expressed his support for the visit on social media, highlighting the shared values of democracy and freedom between Taiwan and Palau. He noted their long-standing collaboration in public health, agriculture, fisheries technology, and climate change response. Lai affirmed Taiwan's dedication to engaging with the world, cooperating with like-minded nations, and being a positive force internationally.

Upon arrival, Hsiao was welcomed by Palauan Vice President Raynold Oilouch. Her itinerary also included a stop to cheer for a Taiwanese baseball team playing in Palau. She presented the players with chocolates symbolizing "Taiwan–Palau friendship," thanking them for their participation and for fostering exchanges with a diplomatic partner. Hsiao emphasized that sports diplomacy, through friendly games, can further strengthen the deep ties between the two nations.

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Baseball is a sport beloved by people in Taiwan and Palau, Hsiao said, adding that diplomacy takes many forms, and through friendly exchange games, we can foster friendship and further strengthen the deep ties between the two countries.