President Lai Ching-te will embark on a seven-day trip to the South Pacific, with stopovers in Hawaii and Guam. This will be his first official visit since taking office in May. Lai, along with his delegation, will visit the Marshall Islands and Tuvalu, before transiting through Guam and heading to Palau. The purpose of the trip is to strengthen Taiwan’s partnerships with its diplomatic allies and promote bilateral cooperation.
During the layovers in Hawaii and Guam, the president will meet with old friends, attend closed-door think tank events, and dine with Taiwanese expatriates. The arrangements for Lai’s stopovers will prioritize his safety, dignity, and comfort, following established protocols.
Lai is scheduled to meet with the heads of government of the three ally countries – the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau. He will also address the Legislature of the Marshall Islands and visit facilities funded by Taiwan in the Pacific island states.
The visit has raised concerns about potential military drills by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army in response. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister has urged Beijing to refrain from any actions that could escalate tensions in the Taiwan Strait.
Lai’s South Pacific tour aims to strengthen ties with allies and promote cooperation for mutual benefit. The president’s itinerary includes meetings with government leaders, visits to Taiwan-funded initiatives, and inspections of medical and technical missions in the region. The trip underscores Taiwan’s commitment to its diplomatic partners in the face of regional challenges.
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