TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – The Tourism Administration opened an information center in Seattle on Friday as airlines expanded flights between Taiwan and the US.

Taiwan already manages a similar center north of the border, in the Canadian city of Vancouver, British Columbia. The opening of the new office in Seattle, Washington State, shows the Tourism Administration’s determination to tap into outbound travel demand from North America, per CNA.

Per week, 190 flights link Taiwan with North America, with Seattle one of the fastest-growing destinations, the administration said. China Airlines, EVA Air, Starlux Airlines, and Delta Air Lines all operate services between the city and Taiwan.

A new phase in relations with the US Northwest has started, with tourism and culture leading to even closer contacts, Taiwan Representative in Seattle Daniel Chen (甄國清) said at the opening ceremony. 

The information center plans a two-day Taiwan Immersive Festival in August and a Hey Hey Taipei art installation at Seattle Airport in September. Taiwan is also planning to participate in the Seattle Pride parade in June.