TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) left for Palau on Saturday for her first visit to a diplomatic ally since taking office, CNA reported.
Speaking at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Hsiao said the five-day trip would deepen Taiwan-Palau ties and expand cooperation. She said the visit would focus on friendship, sustainable tourism, and the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, as Taiwan and Palau mark more than 25 years of diplomatic relations.
During the visit, Hsiao will meet Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. and other senior officials. She said Whipps has visited Taiwan several times and has shown strong support for relations between the two countries.
Hsiao said the delegation would help promote sustainable tourism in Palau. She said she hoped more Taiwanese would visit Palau and learn about its natural beauty.
The vice president said Whipps invited her to visit major sustainable tourism sites. She is also expected to join him for a snorkeling activity at a well-known site called “God’s Aquarium.”
Hsiao said the delegation would also review Taiwan’s Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project with Palau. She said the projects cover public health, farming, fishing, public works, and other practical areas.
The visit will include a drone donation ceremony. Officials said the event would show how Taiwan uses technology to support its allies and deepen cooperation.
Hsiao said foreign affairs work is never easy. She said the delegation would also visit Taiwan’s embassy in Palau to thank staff working on the front line.
The Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project is a Taiwan program that supports development and cooperation with its diplomatic allies. It focuses on practical areas such as public health, farming, fishing, public works, tourism, and technology.
