TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Tuvalu’s Speaker of Parliament Sir Iakoba Taeia Italeli said he hoped for closer cooperation with Taiwan on Wednesday (Sept. 12). 

Italeli thanked Taiwan for its generosity to Tuvalu during a meeting with President Lai Ching-te (賴清德). He highlighted Taiwan's transformative impact on Tuvalu, according to the Presidential Office.

Italeli said Taiwan's support extends beyond healthcare, encompassing key development projects that address urgent needs and promote sustainable growth in Tuvalu. He pointed to the undersea cable project, which has enhanced the nation's connectivity and reduced disparity.

The speaker also expressed gratitude for Taiwan's contributions to agricultural and fisheries development, which are crucial for food security, economic stability, and sustainable development.

Italeli said Tuvalu’s commitment to Taiwan was unwavering. For 45 years, the two nations have shared a steadfast spirit of partnership, and Tuvalu will continue to advocate for Taiwan in the international arena.

Taiwan’s assistance to Tuvalu lays the foundation for long-term growth and prosperity, Italeli said. He looked forward to continued collaboration to benefit the people of both nations.

Italeli’s visit follows the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) last month, which saw the Solomon Islands attempt to block Taiwan from the 2025 PIF. Following Beijing’s directive, the Solomon Islands introduced a motion to remove Taiwan from the 18-member regional organization.   

Taiwan joined as a development partner in 1993.

Responding to the possibility of Taiwan’s removal from PIF, Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang (田中光) said last week the nation’s three diplomatic allies in the Pacific and other like-minded countries continue to support Taiwan.  Taiwan will persist in international affairs, where it rightfully belongs, he said. 

Aside from Tuvalu, the Marshall Islands and Palau are Taiwan’s other remaining allies in the Pacific.