TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Tuesday pledged to deepen ties with Tuvalu during talks with Tuvalu Parliament Speaker Iakoba Italeli.
Lai said Taiwan will continue collaborating with Tuvalu in multiple fields to promote mutual development while confronting global issues such as climate change and authoritarian expansion, CNA reported.
He added that Italeli’s participation in the 53rd Asian-Pacific Parliamentarians’ Union meeting in Taipei reaffirmed both nations’ determination to work together for stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific.
The president thanked Tuvalu for its long-standing support of Taiwan’s international participation, including at the UN General Assembly and World Health Assembly. He said he hoped for continued mutual support and closer cooperation with democratic partners to safeguard peace and prosperity in the Pacific.
Italeli said climate change is a matter of survival and dignity. He called Taiwan Tuvalu’s most steadfast partner, citing assistance in land reclamation, 4G internet services on outer islands, and medical aid. He urged Taiwan to continue supporting Tuvalu’s energy transition.
The speaker proposed establishing a parliamentary exchange program between Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan and Tuvalu’s Parliament to deepen democratic ties, as well as signing a new bilateral trade agreement that would allow Tuvalu to export food and other resources to Taiwan.
Italeli reaffirmed Tuvalu’s unwavering support for Taiwan, saying his country will continue to stand with Taiwan at international meetings just as Taiwan has always stood with Tuvalu.
