To the central content area
:::

Office of the President Republic of China(Taiwan)
中文
:::

News & activities

News releases

2022-03-22
中文
President Tsai confers decoration on Marshall Islands President Kabua, hosts state banquet

Following a welcome ceremony with military honors and bilateral talks, President Tsai Ing-wen, accompanied by Vice President Lai Ching-te, conferred a decoration upon President of the Marshall Islands David Kabua and hosted a state luncheon in honor of President and First Lady Kabua at the Presidential Office on March 22. In remarks at the event, President Tsai thanked President Kabua for his tremendous efforts to advance the friendship between Taiwan and the Marshall Islands, and for his unwavering support for Taiwan's international participation. President Tsai also expressed hope that our two countries will continue to support each other in the international community and cooperate closely on national development.

During the decoration ceremony, President Tsai personally conferred the Order of Brilliant Jade with Grand Cordon upon President Kabua, and then delivered remarks, a translation of which follows:

The Marshall Islands was the first diplomatic ally in the Pacific that I visited after taking office more than five years ago. In fact, I have visited twice. I recall that my second visit took place in March three years ago. Today, I am very pleased to receive our dear friends from the Marshall Islands at just the same time of year. A very warm welcome to all of you.

I have just conferred upon President Kabua the Order of Brilliant Jade with Grand Cordon. I presented this honor on behalf of the people of Taiwan to thank President Kabua for his tremendous efforts in advancing the diplomatic friendship between our countries, and for his unwavering support for Taiwan's international participation.

Indeed, at last year's United Nations General Assembly, President Kabua publicly urged the United Nations to put an end to its "shameful silence" in excluding Taiwan. Both I and the people of Taiwan were deeply grateful for these righteous words. We look forward to continued mutual support in the international community and to close cooperation on matters of national development.

During my two visits to the Marshall Islands, I promoted bilateral cooperation in such areas as education and women's empowerment. Under the leadership of President Kabua, at the beginning of this year our governments launched the Women Business Start-up Small Loan Revolving Fund, further advancing bilateral endeavors.

We believe that, through diverse exchanges and interactions, Taiwan and the Marshall Islands will open up even more areas for cooperation, and jointly serve as a key stabilizing force throughout the Pacific region. In closing, I wish our nations everlasting friendship as we strive to foster prosperity and development together. Thank you!

President Kabua then delivered remarks, a transcript of which follows:

Allow me to convey warm greetings in Marshallese: "Iakwe," which basically translates to "You are a rainbow," nihao [hello in Mandarin], and to thank Your Excellency for the gracious words of welcome this afternoon. I also wish to express my sincere gratitude for the gracious hospitality accorded to me and my delegation since our arrival in this beautiful country.

Despite the vast ocean that separates our two countries and peoples, we share rich traditions and glorious cultures dating back thousands of years, tied to our common Austronesian heritage. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that our common affinities and close people-to-people relationships have brought us closer than ever before. Nearly 24 years ago in November of 1998, diplomatic relations between the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Republic of China (Taiwan) were formally established by the ROC (Taiwan)'s first popularly elected President Dr. Lee Teng-hui and our country's second president, who is my late Uncle, president, and Iroijlaplap Imata Jabro Kabua.

The Republic of the Marshall Islands strongly affirms our close relationship with Taiwan. This lasting friendship between our free and democratic nations remains unshakable. A testament to this, is the recent adoption of a unanimous resolution by our parliament (Nitijela) reiterating the unwavering support of the government and people of the Republic of the Marshall Islands for the Republic of China (Taiwan). As peoples, as independent nations, and most importantly as lasting friends, we have shared values and commitments, and no matter the challenges, our two democracies will continue on this path of a common future together. The warmth and perseverance of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and her people as a sovereign and democratic nation continue to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for peoples and nations around the world.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted to the international community why it is so critical that the world move toward inclusiveness and ensure that "no one is left behind." The ROC (Taiwan) has, since the global pandemic, proven and shown exemplary leadership and resilience to the pandemic and continues to provide assistance to nations worldwide who are suffering from the consequences of COVID-19. Taiwan's leadership in the international platform deserves to be acknowledged. In this day and age, when our common humanity stands at the brink of collapse, and the future is uncertain, it is incumbent on all of us to do our part to preserve, protect, and promote our shared ideals of democracy, freedom, human rights, and the rule of law. I believe that unless we are able to safeguard these most basic tenets, our common future cannot be assured. There is an old Marshallese adage, it goes like this "an piliñliñ koba komman lometo," which translates to "many drops together make a mighty ocean." This means that every nation, regardless of size, wealth, and/or standing in the world must be allowed to contribute to our common global humanity. The Republic of China (Taiwan) too must be given every opportunity to be a contributing member of the international community of nations, especially the United Nations. We reiterate our message that this shameful silence must end.

I firmly believe that Taiwan's 23.6 million people deserve to participate in regional and international forums, including the specialized agencies of the United Nations such as the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, and any other agency of the UN that it chooses to participate in. The Republic of the Marshall Islands will not rest in its advocacy for the ROC (Taiwan)'s recognition and inclusion.

In our talks, we have committed to enhancing and deepening bilateral relations. While our two countries have an engaging relationship, there are opportunities for expansion in the areas of infrastructure development, agricultural support for food security, cultural collaboration, close people-to-people exchanges, and a wide range of others, including but not limited to trade and investment, tourism, renewable energy, health, transportation, education, as well as climate change efforts.

The Republic of the Marshall Islands is a proud member of the Austronesian forum. I understand that from the Executive Council Meeting of the 2021 Austronesian Forum, it was decided that the RMI will host the next Austronesian Forum this year. We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to host and certainly look forward to further exchange of cultural views with Taiwan and other like-minded countries. Furthermore, we are most happy to hear that the Council of Indigenous Peoples has approved the opening of a sub-office for the Austronesian Forum in the Marshall Islands.

Excellency, over the years, you have managed to grace us with your presence to our humble shores on more than one occasion. And I am confident that during those visits you witnessed our proud culture, our future aspirations, as well as our vulnerability. As a low-lying island nation, we have no higher ground, and climate change impacts are a severe threat to our future. Future projections of sea-level rise threaten our security and survival, and we are already experiencing loss and damage impacts in our local communities. We have had no choice but to fight for stronger international awareness and ambition to forge action on climate change. In this fight we stand shoulder to shoulder with other island nations, including the ROC (Taiwan), and many of our closest friends. The Marshall Islands is proud of Taiwan's leadership on clean energy, and welcome your strong action to address your own emissions – we all must play a part. We look forward to cooperating closely with the Republic of China (Taiwan) to continue to combat the devastating impacts and existential threat caused by climate change.

My visit provided us with the unique opportunity for an exchange of views on current international affairs as well as our bilateral relations. I am proud of our achievements and am hopeful that my visit will serve as a springboard to enhanced relations through enduring partnership between our two countries and a prosperous future together.

Among those in attendance at the banquet were Secretary-General to the President David T. Lee (李大維), National Security Council Secretary-General Wellington Koo (顧立雄), Senior Advisor to the President Koo Kwang-ming (辜寬敏), Foreign Minister Joseph Wu (吳釗燮), Council of Indigenous Peoples Minister Icyang Parod, National Security Council Deputy Secretary-General Hsu Szu-chien (徐斯儉), Ocean Affairs Council Deputy Minister and Coast Guard Administration Director-General Chou Mei-wu (周美伍), Ambassador to the Marshall Islands Jeffrey S.C. Hsiao (蕭勝中), and Marshall Islands Ambassador Neijon Rema Edwards.

President Tsai delivers remarks at the state banquet in honor of Marshall Islands President and First Lady Kabua.
President Tsai confers a decoration upon Marshall Islands President Kabua.
Marshall Islands President Kabua delivers remarks at the state banquet hosted by President Tsai.
President Tsai hosts a state banquet in honor of Marshall Islands President and First Lady Kabua at the Presidential Office.
Related News
2025-09-16
President Lai meets Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Chairman Sumi Shuzo  
On the afternoon of September 16, President Lai Ching-te met with Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Chairman Sumi Shuzo. In remarks, President Lai expressed confidence that Taiwan-Japan relations will flourish even more under the leadership of Chairman Sumi, with his extensive experience and foresight. The president also expressed hoped that Taiwan and Japan will continue to deepen exchanges and cooperation and contribute even more to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I want to congratulate Chairman Sumi on assuming his position at the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association this June. I also welcome him on his first visit to Taiwan since taking office and wish him a fruitful and successful trip. I commend Chairman Sumi for taking to heart one of the teachings of Laozi (老子) from the Tao Te Ching (道德經), that “the highest good is like water.” I believe he will bring this spirit to his leadership of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association and help deepen the friendship between our two countries in many areas. If leaders around the world could also embrace this principle in managing relations with neighboring countries, I am confident that world peace would naturally follow. The peoples of Taiwan and Japan act with goodwill and support each other like family. The Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association and the Taiwan-Japan Relations Association have long played key roles in bilateral exchanges, overcoming various difficulties and limitations together. The friendship between Taiwan and Japan thus stands as a model of bilateral relations for the world. Chairman Sumi has been active in Japan’s business community for many years, holding numerous important positions and possessing extensive experience and foresight. Taiwan-Japan relations will surely flourish even more under his outstanding leadership. I hope we can continue deepening exchanges and cooperation, ushering in a new era. Whether in economic security, technological innovation, culture and tourism, youth exchanges, or advancing an economic partnership agreement between Taiwan and Japan, I hope to work closely with Chairman Sumi to contribute even more to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. Once again, I want to thank the Japanese government for consistently reiterating the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait to the international community and opposing any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by use of force. I am also thankful for Japan’s longstanding support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization and World Health Organization. These positions and actions not only demonstrate Japan’s firm commitment to regional peace, but are also deeply inspiring to Taiwan. Lastly, I hope the friendship between our two countries will continue to grow stronger and closer, reaching even greater heights. Chairman Sumi then delivered remarks, mentioning that before he began his term as chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, he had already engaged in many business exchanges with Taiwan. He said he hopes to further promote development between Japan and Taiwan across a wide range of sectors. Chairman Sumi stated that Taiwan and Japan both face highly unstable international circumstances, including countries attempting to unilaterally change the status quo by use of force or intimidation, and significant impacts on the development of international trade. Pointing out that the fundamental and universal values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law have also been impacted, the chairman said that global affairs are not simply black and white and that we should work towards building a more diverse and inclusive international society. He said that Japan and Taiwan, grounded in these shared universal values, have collaborated closely to this day, and that both emphasize a spirit of harmony and coordination. He expressed hope that this conviction can extend to other regions of the world. Chairman Sumi also pointed out that Taiwan and Japan deal with many similar difficulties and issues, such as complex international trade interactions, declining birthrates, aging populations, labor shortages, pension and welfare systems, social development, and the establishment of comprehensive healthcare systems. Both countries, he added, also frequently face natural disasters like typhoons and earthquakes, highlighting the need for more robust disaster prevention systems, effective responses to global warming, and a stable energy supply. Chairman Sumi expressed hope of strengthening cooperation on these issues, sharing expertise, and working together to find solutions. Referencing the association’s latest survey on Taiwanese public perception of Japan, Chairman Sumi said that 76 percent of Taiwanese named Japan as their favorite country. He added that the number of Taiwanese tourist visits to Japan has exceeded six million, reflecting our deep and solidly-based friendship. Chairman Sumi expressed his belief that bilateral relations will continue to deepen and pledged during his chairmanship to fully support further development of Taiwan-Japan relations. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki.  
中文
2025-09-12
President Lai receives credentials from new Belize Ambassador Katherine Vanessa Meighan
On the afternoon of September 12, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belize to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Katherine Vanessa Meighan. In remarks, President Lai expressed hope that with Ambassador Meighan’s experience and vision, our two countries will achieve further progress in such areas as educational exchanges, gender equality, and economic and trade cooperation, reaching new milestones in our bilateral ties. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I extend my sincerest welcome. Ambassador Meighan is a dear and longstanding friend of Taiwan. She is a distinguished alumna of National Chengchi University, and since completing her studies, she has contributed greatly to Belize’s business community. Her leadership as president of the Rotary Club of Belize and the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry has earned her high regard. In recent years, Ambassador Meighan has engaged closely with the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Belize. In addition to regularly participating in embassy events, she has also hosted numerous trade and investment missions from Taiwan, making considerable contributions to the advancement of economic and trade exchanges between our two nations. Ambassador Meighan has also long endeavored to enhance women’s empowerment and promote the development of micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises. These goals align closely with Taiwan’s policy direction. I firmly believe that, with Ambassador Meighan’s experience and vision, our two countries will achieve further progress in such areas as educational exchanges, gender equality, and economic and trade cooperation. Next month, we will mark 36 years of diplomatic relations between our nations. We are delighted to have seen significant growth in economic and trade exchanges since the implementation of the Taiwan-Belize Economic Cooperation Agreement. In July, Taiwan also announced the opening of its market to imports of frozen whiteleg shrimp from Belize. I am confident that, through joint efforts, our economic, trade, and investment ties will continue to strengthen. I have met and engaged with Prime Minister John Briceño on several occasions and greatly admire his leadership and vision. I look forward to the opportunity to visit Belize and witness firsthand the results of our nations’ collaboration across all domains. In closing, I once again extend a warm welcome to Ambassador Meighan. Her return to Taiwan for this post demonstrates the value the Belizean government places upon the diplomatic alliance between our countries. I firmly believe that going forward, we can work hand in hand to usher in new developments, new achievements, and new milestones in our bilateral ties.  Ambassador Meighan then delivered remarks, saying that her pursuit of higher learning in Taiwan 20 years ago reminds her that education is a gift that multiplies opportunities for communities and nations. She added that she is grateful for the continued partnership that Taiwan extends to Belize and Caribbean and Latin American nations, a partnership grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and steadfast commitment to development and human potential. Ambassador Meighan indicated that our bilateral relationship stands as a testament of principled democracy: purposeful, resilient, and anchored in democratic ideals. Taiwan’s investments in Belize, such as those in education, health, infrastructure, and technology, she said, have not only advanced our nations’ development goals, but have strengthened the fabric of our people-to-people ties. The ambassador then stated that her return as Belize’s representative is a renewal of that trust and a pledge to deepen collaboration, adding that she is committed to broadening cooperation beyond policy to the cultural and educational exchanges that nurture understanding and friendship.  Ambassador Meighan affirmed Belize’s unwavering support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international fora, stating that she invites continued dialogue on how we can translate these shared values into tangible benefits for our families, our businesses, and our nations. The ambassador expressed hope that the friendship between Belize and Taiwan will continue to stand as a beacon, showing that principled collaboration, mutual respect, and enduring goodwill can propel our nations toward a future of peace, prosperity, and shared purpose for generations to come. She then thanked President Lai for his leadership and the enduring friendship between our countries, also expressing hope that together, we can nurture a world in which nations rise by lifting one another up, and where the ties that bind Belize and Taiwan serve as a model for a more cooperative and harmonious global community.  
中文
2025-09-12
President Lai receives credentials from new Paraguay Ambassador Darío Filártiga Ruiz Díaz
On the morning of September 12, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Paraguay to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Darío Filártiga Ruiz Díaz. In remarks, President Lai welcomed the ambassador to his new post in Taiwan, noting it marks a new chapter in bilateral relations between Taiwan and Paraguay. The president also emphasized that our two countries have strong bonds and engage in close cooperation in democratic values, economic collaboration, education and culture, as well as social welfare and people’s livelihoods. He expressed hope for renewed momentum in our prosperous partnership, resulting in even more fruitful cooperation and mutual benefits. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I sincerely welcome Ambassador Filártiga to his new post in Taiwan. He has not only been entrusted with this important mission by President Santiago Peña Palacios, but has also received strong bipartisan support from the Paraguayan Senate. This demonstrates the importance that Paraguay attaches to the friendship between our two countries. I am confident that the ambassador’s assignment will mark a new chapter in our bilateral relations. Ambassador Filártiga has longstanding ties with Taiwan. He previously served as a ministerial political advisor to former President Horacio Cartes and accompanied him on three visits to Taiwan. Ambassador Filártiga is also highly knowledgeable in regional affairs. Given his outstanding abilities, I am confident that our bilateral cooperation and friendship will stand as a model for the world. Taiwan and Paraguay are like two beacons of democracy on opposite ends of the globe, illuminating each other. Our two countries have strong bonds and engage in close cooperation in democratic values, economic collaboration, education and culture, as well as social welfare and people’s livelihoods. In education, we jointly established the Taiwan-Paraguay Polytechnic University, which trains professionals in fields like electrical engineering and information technology, providing Paraguay with a stronger foundation for developing its high-tech industries. As for economic and trade cooperation, bilateral trade has accelerated since the Taiwan-Paraguay economic cooperation agreement entered into force in 2018. Taiwan has become an important export market for Paraguayan pork, beef, and sesame, mutually benefiting both countries. Additionally, joint initiatives like the Taiwan-Paraguay Smart Technology Park, our electric bus pilot program, and the Health Information Management Efficiency Enhancement Project have significantly enhanced the quality of life of citizens and are the fruits of our dedicated, long-term collaboration. Once again, I congratulate Ambassador Filártiga on his new assignment and look forward to his service bringing renewed momentum to our prosperous partnership, resulting in even more fruitful cooperation and mutual benefits. I hope to continue working side by side to contribute more to democracy, peace, and prosperity around the world. Ambassador Filártiga then delivered remarks, saying it is an honor to be appointed ambassador of Paraguay to Taiwan, as it carries the expectations and responsibilities of his country, government, people, and family. He noted that the appointment also recognizes his years of dedicated work in fostering Taiwan-Paraguay relations. He extended the regards and greetings of President Peña and former President Cartes, adding that President Peña looks forward to President Lai’s next official visit to Paraguay. Ambassador Filártiga noted that the government of Paraguay aims to strengthen bilateral relations with its allies, and that the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the United States are key partners in jointly addressing important challenges. He said that Taiwan is an important ally and economic partner of Paraguay, as it plays a crucial role in high-tech industries and global development, and occupies a leading position in the semiconductor sector. He also highly commended Taiwan’s quality higher education system and its commitment and achievements in sustainable economic development. Ambassador Filártiga thanked Taiwan for strongly supporting several of Paraguay’s key development initiatives, which have significantly enhanced the quality of life for the people of Paraguay and positioned the country as an innovation hub for the region and beyond. He also emphasized that Paraguay has long advocated in international venues for the international standing of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and its meaningful participation in all organizations. He stated this is a central principle for the government of Paraguay and should be a shared goal of all nations that respect freedom, democracy, and human rights, as it reflects the fundamental values of safeguarding human dignity and advancing development. Ambassador Filártiga noted that Paraguay has abundant natural resources, a favorable climate, fertile land, and abundant water resources. The country also boasts clean renewable energy and produces high-quality livestock and staple crops, such as rice. He expressed hope for further opportunities to increase Paraguayan exports to Taiwan and looked forward to Taiwanese enterprises investing and establishing operations in Paraguay in the spirit of mutual benefit and cooperation. Ambassador Filártiga stated that the brotherly ties between Paraguay and Taiwan are a treasured bond worth protecting and strengthening. He further noted that over the past 68 years, the solid diplomatic relationship between our two countries has become one of mutual trust, respect, and assistance, benefiting the peoples of both nations. In closing, he reiterated the commitment of both the government of Paraguay and President Peña to consolidate bilateral relations. He affirmed their continued support for Taiwan’s participation in international organizations, with the hope of jointly building a prosperous and sustainable future.
中文
2025-09-09
President Lai receives credentials from new Haiti Ambassador Roudy Stanley Penn  
On the morning of September 9, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Haiti to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Roudy Stanley Penn. In remarks, President Lai welcomed the ambassador to his new post and thanked the government of Haiti for its longstanding support and advocacy for Taiwan. The president also stated that joint efforts between our two countries have produced increasingly fruitful results across a range of collaborative initiatives. He expressed hope that we will continue to deepen our friendship, building on the strong existing foundation of our cooperation. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a great pleasure to receive the credentials of Ambassador Penn. Next April marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. On behalf of the government and all people of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I sincerely welcome Ambassador Penn back to Taiwan as we celebrate this milestone together. Ambassador Penn is a young and promising leader with extensive experience in the public and private sectors. He showed exceptional capability during his first term as ambassador to Taiwan. His reappointment reflects the Haitian government’s recognition of his service and its commitment to the bilateral relationship between our countries. With Ambassador Penn’s assistance, I believe that Taiwan and Haiti will continue to deepen our cooperation in various fields. When I met with Ambassador Penn at the Presidential Office last May, he noted that Taiwan and Haiti’s cooperation in agriculture, energy, culture, and technology has brought substantial benefits to our peoples, demonstrating the importance of our bilateral partnership. As Ambassador Penn said, our joint efforts have increasingly produced fruitful results and deepened our friendship. Initiatives including the introduction of solar-powered irrigation pumps, the Rice Production Enhancement Project, and the Vegetable and Fruit Cultivation Development Project have laid the groundwork for lasting food security in Haiti. Furthermore, Taiwan has significantly increased the number of scholarships available to Haitian students this year, hoping to foster even more talent and promote student exchanges between our countries. I want to thank the government of Haiti for its longstanding support and unwavering advocacy for Taiwan. This year, Haiti’s Ministry of Public Health and Population voiced support for Taiwan at the World Health Organization (WHO)’s Executive Board meeting and the World Health Assembly. Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste, who visited Taiwan two months ago, also sent a letter to the director-general of the WHO on Taiwan’s behalf, reflecting the spirit of true friendship. Once again, I sincerely welcome Ambassador Penn and wish him all the best in his work. I hope that Taiwan and Haiti will continue to deepen our friendship, building on the strong existing foundation of our cooperation, as well as our bonds of mutual trust and respect. Ambassador Penn then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor to present President Lai with his credentials and extending greetings on behalf of the Transitional Presidential Council, the government, and the people of Haiti. He also noted that it is an honor to once again serve as the ambassador of Haiti to Taiwan, and expressed his deep admiration for Taiwan’s journey, history, and bold aspiration. Ambassador Penn reiterated the Haitian government’s strong determination to strengthen and develop friendly and cooperative relations between our two countries. He affirmed that through joint cooperation, bilateral ties can reach new heights and mutually benefit our peoples. Ambassador Penn noted that next year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Haiti and Taiwan, presenting an excellent opportunity to give renewed momentum to bilateral cooperation and strengthen friendly ties. He expressed hope to work with President Lai and the government of Taiwan to further deepen the friendship between our two countries’ peoples.  
中文
2025-09-03
President Lai meets delegation led by Saint Lucia Deputy Prime Minister Ernest Hilaire  
On the afternoon of September 3, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Saint Lucia Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture and Information Ernest Hilaire. In remarks, President Lai thanked Saint Lucia for long supporting Taiwan’s international participation. He also expressed hope that the two countries will continue to expand and diversify collaboration to contribute even more to our nations’ prosperous development and to global progress. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I extend a warm welcome to Deputy Prime Minister Hilaire as he leads a delegation to Taiwan once again. Our previous meeting was in 2023, when I was serving as vice president. We had an in-depth discussion on many topics here at the Presidential Office. It is truly a pleasure to see Deputy Prime Minister Hilaire again today. I am also delighted to meet with Minister for Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs Emma Hippolyte and Minister for Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment Joachim Andre Henry. I am sure that through this visit, you will gain an even more comprehensive understanding of Taiwan. In recent years, Taiwan and Saint Lucia have cooperated ever more closely in such areas as agriculture, education, public health, and infrastructure. This has further deepened our diplomatic alliance. Since taking office, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has focused especially on education, talent cultivation, and youth development. These goals align closely with Taiwan’s policy position. We believe that talent, particularly that of the next generation, is the foundation of national development, and it is the most important investment our nations can make together. Cooperation between Taiwan and Saint Lucia to nurture talent has already yielded fruitful results. In June, I met a PhD graduate from Saint Lucia at Central Police University’s graduation ceremony. I hope that he, along with other international alumni from Taiwanese universities, will be able to make important contributions to their nations’ development. This year, we launched the Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative and its Diplomatic Allies Inbound Track. In a few days, three young Taiwanese will travel to your nation for internships in government agencies, and at the end of this month, two young Saint Lucians will come to Taiwan for internships in agriculture and tourism. In addition to education and talent exchange, last month, Taiwan’s International Cooperation and Development Fund and Saint Lucia’s Youth Economy Agency jointly launched an e-commerce platform. This is an important step forward for the digital transition. It will also help boost the entrepreneurial opportunities of Saint Lucian youth as they enter the international market. In areas such as overseas study, internships, professional training, and digital cooperation, Taiwan is willing to share even more experience with Saint Lucia as we embrace the world. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to thank Saint Lucia for long voicing support for Taiwan and its international participation at global venues. Looking ahead, let us continue to expand and diversify our collaboration to contribute even more to our nations’ prosperous development and to global progress. Deputy Prime Minister Hilaire then delivered remarks, first saying that the delegation is most grateful for the welcome they received from the people and government of Taiwan. He said that Saint Lucia considers Taiwan not just a partner, but a true and enduring friend, and that relations have always been grounded in mutual respect, trust, and an unwavering commitment to national development. He emphasized that Saint Lucia remains steadfast in its support of Taiwan’s aspiration for national independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty, and will continue to raise its voice for the international community to recognize Taiwan’s capacity to contribute meaningfully to the global system and to the building of a better future for all of humanity. Taiwan’s friendship with Saint Lucia, the deputy prime minister said, is not only visible in diplomacy, but also in the everyday lives of Saint Lucia’s people. He went on to say that through small-scale community projects, Taiwan has touched the very fabric of his country’s society – improving livelihoods, enhancing opportunities, and uplifting quality of life in tangible and lasting ways. At the same time, he said, Taiwan has played a central role in Saint Lucia’s national development, most notably for its partnership in Hewanorra International Airport’s redevelopment and the St. Jude Hospital project – projects that will continue to shape the trajectory of Saint Lucia for generations to come. Deputy Prime Minister Hilaire stated that beyond infrastructure and community, Taiwan’s heart has been most evident in its people-to-people connections, and that the bonds forged through education, agriculture, and cultural exchanges are profound, exemplifying the true meaning of partnership. He added that Taiwan’s ambassador is admired across his nation, and has been present at their festivals, engaged in their programs, and has walked side by side with their people. It is through these deep and human connections, he said, that Taiwan shines as an example of friendship that is transformational. Deputy Prime Minister Hilaire brought special greetings from the prime minister of Saint Lucia, and affirmed Saint Lucia’s commitment to walk in this journey with Taiwan, hand in hand, as partners and as friends. Ours, he said, is a bond built not only on shared interests, but on shared values – values of dignity, sovereignty, and human progress. He then expressed hope that our friendship may continue to flourish, and that Taiwan’s light of resilience, innovation, and cultural richness may shine ever brighter on the global stage. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Saint Lucia Ambassador Robert Kennedy Lewis.  
中文
2025-08-01
President Lai delivers remarks on US reciprocal tariff policy response
On the morning of August 1, President Lai Ching-te delivered remarks at the Presidential Office on the response to the reciprocal tariff policy of the United States. President Lai explained that technical consultations with the US are finished, but as the final concluding meeting has not yet taken place, 20 percent has been set for Taiwan as an interim tariff rate. The president said that Taiwan will work towards a more favorable and reasonable rate in the subsequent negotiations, and that the US has expressed its willingness to continue talks. He added that a support plan for Taiwan’s export supply chain in response to US tariffs has been proposed to assist small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in responding to the US tariff policy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Earlier today, the US government informed our lead negotiator, Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君), that an interim tariff rate for Taiwan has been set at 20 percent. Since April 2, when the US introduced its new tariff policy targeting countries worldwide, Taiwan has actively engaged in four in-person rounds of negotiation and multiple discussions over videoconference with the US government. Throughout the process, both sides have negotiated in good faith based on the shared goal of addressing the trade deficit between Taiwan and the US and creating complementary and mutually beneficial outcomes. Although we have achieved an interim reduction in the tariff rate from 32 percent to 20 percent at this point in the negotiations, 20 percent was never our goal. We hope to work towards a more favorable and reasonable rate for Taiwan in the subsequent negotiations, and the US has expressed its willingness to continue talks. We have finished technical consultations, but as the final concluding meeting has not yet taken place, a final tariff rate has not yet been reached. This is the reason for the setting of an interim tariff rate. I extend my sincere gratitude to Vice Premier Cheng and Minister without Portfolio of the Executive Yuan Yang Jen-ni (楊珍妮) for working tirelessly over the past few months leading the negotiation team, remaining on call whether in Taiwan or the US. From here in Taiwan I, along with Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu (吳釗燮), Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), and Secretary-General Pan Men-an (潘孟安), have also provided full support to our negotiating team in the US. Regardless of the final tariff rate, Taiwan’s industries will inevitably be impacted. I am deeply grateful to Premier Cho for proposing on April 4 a support plan for Taiwan’s export supply chain in response to US tariffs, and for holding over 20 industry consultation sessions. The special budget has also been increased from NT$88 billion to NT$93 billion. This special act has already been submitted to the Legislative Yuan and passed review. I hope that the Executive Yuan will promptly submit the budget request for legislative review so that the special budget can be implemented as soon as possible to assist SMEs in responding to this new US tariff policy.
中文