Office of the President Republic of China(Taiwan)

President Tsai Ing-wen met with a delegation led by Guam governor Eddie Calvo on the morning of July 30. President Tsai expressed hope that Taiwan and Guam will continue to develop closer economic and trade cooperation that benefits industry and people in Taiwan and the United States, and share their respective developmental experiences with other members of the Austronesian cultural family throughout the Pacific region to promote overall regional peace and well-being.

In remarks, President Tsai said she was delighted to once again welcome our good friend, Governor Calvo, to Taiwan, and that the governor's fourth visit since taking office reflected the frequent exchanges and cooperation between Taiwan and Guam.

She went on to recall the warm reception she received from Governor Calvo when transiting through Guam last November. The Guam Legislature also passed a resolution to welcome her. And Guam's beautiful bay, hospitality and friendly atmosphere have deeply impressed her.

The president then said that many Taiwanese have travelled to Guam, and like her, found it to be a beautiful place. Over the past few years, she said she's also noticed that one after another, well-known Taiwan enterprises have invested in Guam because of its thriving tourism industry. She therefore expressed sincere hope that Taiwan and Guam will continue to develop closer economic and trade relationships that benefit industry and people in both countries.

Governor Calvo's delegation was in Taiwan to promote tourism and visit various Taiwan enterprises. Equally important, they will also be participating in the opening ceremony for the 2018 Austronesian Forum. This multilateral, regional forum will use Austronesian culture to bring 13 Pacific island countries and territories together for exchanges on important topics in their common cultural heritage and social development, discussing concrete plans for cooperation.

Guam is a hub for Austronesian culture, well-known for its Chamorro culture, and the venue of the most recent Festival of Pacific Arts. Research also points to Taiwan as the origin of the Austronesian language family, the president said, and we are proud of our rich and diverse indigenous cultures.

As long as Taiwan and Guam work together, she said, we can contribute our developmental experience to other members of the Austronesian cultural family throughout the Pacific region, and promote overall regional peace and wellbeing.

President Tsai closed her remarks by welcoming Governor Calvo and his delegation once again, and wishing them a smooth and successful visit.