TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) has promised to assist Palau in preparing to host next year’s Pacific Islands Forum.

At a banquet for Palau House of Delegates Speaker Gibson Kanai, Lin said Taiwan would do so as part of the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project to showcase the results of bilateral cooperation to the world.

Lin said Palau is Taiwan’s closest diplomatic ally. He added that both sides share Indigenous cultures and universal values consistent with the Pacific Way’s spirit of diversity and inclusiveness, and will continue working together for a more prosperous and sustainable future.

Taiwan was among the countries excluded from this year’s PIF after the host, Solomon Islands, limited attendance to member states to focus on reforms.

Founded in 1971, the PIF seeks to foster collaboration and cooperation in the Pacific region. It comprises 18 countries and territories, including three of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies: Tuvalu, the Marshall Islands, and Palau.