TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Chen Ming-chi (陳明祺) lauded Taiwan’s close ties with southeastern US states during a banquet for a visiting state legislator delegation on Thursday.

The group comprises senior legislators from Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia — all staunch supporters of Taiwan, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Chen said Taiwan has deepened cooperation with southeastern states in recent years in areas such as marine conservation, renewable energy, cultural exchange, and trade and investment.

He encouraged the delegation to explore more opportunities for cooperation and urged state governments to open representative offices in Taiwan to enhance bilateral ties.

Kentucky State Senator Mike Wilson emphasized that Taiwan is one of the US’ key trading partners and said he hopes to continue expanding Taiwan–US cooperation in education, trade, and high-tech fields.

The legislators will depart on Friday.