Office of the President Republic of China(Taiwan)

On the afternoon of June 6, Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao delivered remarks before embarking on a five-day, four-night visit to the Republic of Palau titled the “Palau Prosperity Project.” Vice President Hsiao said that during this trip they will continue deepening the diplomatic ties between Taiwan and Palau through meetings with President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. and other key leaders; visit sustainable tourism attractions and help promote Palau’s tourism development; and witness alongside the Palauan government the achievements of Taiwan-Palau cooperation through the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project in the areas of medicine and public health, agriculture and fisheries, and public infrastructure. The vice president expressed hope that the visit will further deepen our nations’ multifaceted cooperation, building on existing foundations as we look to the future.In remarks, the vice president said that today marks the official departure of the Palau Prosperity Project delegation, adding that this is her first visit to a diplomatic ally since assuming the vice presidency. She expressed her profound honor at being entrusted with this mission by President Lai, and that she feels the weight of the responsibility it entails. She stated that on this trip they aim to achieve the following three objectives:The first is to deepen the diplomatic ties between Taiwan and Palau. During the delegation’s time in Palau, the vice president will call on President Whipps and other political leaders. President Whipps has visited Taiwan multiple times since taking office, she noted, demonstrating through concrete action his commitment to our bilateral relationship. In response to President Whipps’ proactive visits, this reciprocal visit is an opportunity to further deepen the friendship between our two nations.The second objective is to assist Palau in promoting sustainable tourism – a priority of the Palauan government – and to showcase the beauty of Palau to more people in Taiwan. She said that the delegation is honored to have been invited by President Whipps to visit Palau’s well-known sustainable tourism attractions in person. The vice president expressed hope that more people in Taiwan will follow in the delegation’s footsteps, discover Palau through travel, and explore its beauty together.The third objective is to jointly witness the achievements of Taiwan-Palau cooperation through the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project. In recent years, the government of Taiwan has collaborated with the government of Palau on the project, helping to advance Palau’s national development. The vice president stated that this trip will allow the delegation to witness firsthand the cooperative achievements our two countries have made in various fields such as medicine and public health, agriculture and fisheries, and public infrastructure.Pointing out that diplomatic work is never easy, the vice president said that she will also visit the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in the Republic of Palau to cheer on and offer encouragement to all the frontline staff stationed there.The vice president stated that it has been over a quarter of a century since the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Palau established diplomatic relations, and the two countries have maintained frequent and close interactions. She expressed hope that this visit will further deepen our nations’ multifaceted cooperation, building on existing foundations as we look to the future. The vice president added that she looks forward to this Palau Prosperity journey, working together so that Taiwan may engage with the world and deepen our bonds with friends in the international community.Among those at the airport to see the vice president off were Acting Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Saint Kitts and Nevis Ambassador Donya L. Francis and Palau Chargé d’Affaires David Adams Orrukem.

On the morning of June 7 local time (morning of the same day Taipei time), during her visit to the Republic of Palau, Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao toured several natural and historical sites, including Peleliu Island and the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. She was personally accompanied by Palauan President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr., who also piloted the boat.Vice President Hsiao boarded the boat from the dock of the Palau Royal Resort. President Whipps personally piloted the watercraft, allowing her to experience the charm of Palau's ocean tourism. The vice president also briefly took the helm to enjoy navigating the waters.The delegation first headed to view Lover's Bridge, a natural archway formed by years of seawater and wind erosion on the coral rocks. Next, they proceeded to a famous dive site, the Big Drop-off, for a snorkeling experience. There, they viewed coral reefs and diverse marine life up close, experiencing firsthand why Palau is known as “God's aquarium.” President Whipps and Vice President Hsiao also paddled a kayak together, enjoying the fun of being out on the water.Following this, the vice president traveled to Peleliu State, where she responded to questions from the media regarding her tourism experience on this visit. Vice President Hsiao stated that seeing Palau's beauty with her own eyes allowed her to more deeply understand the Palauan people's desire to share this magnificent scenery with more of Taiwan's people. She noted that people from island nations are commonly open-minded and very friendly, and that the peoples of Taiwan and Palau share many similarities. She expressed her gratitude to President Whipps for the special arrangements, adding that sailing on the vast open sea was an incredibly relaxing experience.Commenting on the snorkeling experience, Vice President Hsiao said that Palau's underwater scenery is spectacular. She noted that the richly colored coral reefs and the wide variety of fish left a deep impression on her, and expressed hope that more of Taiwan's citizens will visit Palau to enjoy such an excursion. She also mentioned that President Whipps is highly familiar with the marine environment; whether it was sea turtles hiding in the rocks or sharks resting on the seabed, he was able to quickly spot them and introduce them to everyone. She stated that she felt extremely fortunate to receive such a professional guided tour.The vice president stated that she had previously snorkeled in Kenting and had visited Palau with her family 18 years ago; engaging with the ocean again after many years, she recognized Palau's long-term commitment to marine conservation. She noted that it is only by continuously seeking a balance between tourism development and ecological protection that Palau can ensure visiting tourists truly experience its beauty.Discussing the afternoon itinerary, Vice President Hsiao pointed out that Peleliu was a crucial and fiercely contested battlefield between the United States and Japan during World War II, saying that the conflicts of war from over 80 years ago offer many historical lessons. Today, she said, the US and Japan have become important allies in the Indo-Pacific region, and their cooperative efforts are aimed at promoting regional stability, ensuring that people of all nations can live and work in a peaceful environment.After a luncheon, guided by President Whipps and Peleliu State Governor Emais Roberts, Vice President Hsiao visited the gravesite of former Palauan President Kuniwo Nakamura to lay flowers and pay her respects. She then toured the Peleliu World War II Memorial Museum.Also in attendance at the event were Palauan Minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development Ngiraibelas Tmetuchl, Ambassador-designate to Taiwan Gaafar J. Uherbelau, and Japanese Ambassador to Palau Kasahara Kenichi.

On the morning of June 8 local time (morning of the same day Taipei time), Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao traveled to the capital of the Republic of Palau to call on President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. and hold a bilateral meeting. The two leaders exchanged views extensively on mutual cooperation in areas including public infrastructure, medicine and public health, agriculture and fisheries, technology applications, security, and clean energy. Following the meeting, Vice President Hsiao proceeded to Palau's National Congress. There, she thanked Palau for standing firmly with Taiwan and consistently supporting Taiwan's participation in the international community. She also expressed hope that the two nations will continue working together to ensure that future generations inherit a Pacific region that is peaceful, prosperous, democratic, and free.A transcript of Vice President Hsiao's remarks at the National Congress follows:First of all, I'd like to express my sincere gratitude to the Palau National Congress for this gracious invitation. Along with Vice Minister Lin [Ching-yi] (林靜儀) of Taiwan's Ministry of Health and [Welfare] and Vice Minister Ger [Baushuan] (葛葆萱) of Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, our delegation is honored and privileged to join you here today.This is my third day in Palau. And yesterday, I had the pleasure of joining President Whipps in visiting some of Palau's most treasured landmarks, including the German Channel, Shark City, and Peleliu. Having witnessed Palau's extraordinary natural beauty and experienced the warmth and hospitality of its people, I understand why so many Taiwanese visitors feel such a strong connection to this remarkable nation. And I feel just like home here.Now Taiwan and Palau are both proud ocean nations. The sea doesn't separate us; it connects us. For generations, our people have navigated the Pacific, drawing sustenance, culture, and identity from the ocean. And today we continue to share a responsibility to protect our marine environment, strengthen maritime security, and preserve the natural heritage that will sustain future generations.Our relationship is rooted not only in geography, but also in history and shared values. We share Austronesian cultural connections. We are both vibrant democracies. And we are both nations that have demonstrated resilience, determination, and faith in the ability of our citizens to shape their future.Taiwan and Palau have demonstrated that nations of different sizes can make meaningful contributions to the world. We cherish freedom, uphold the rule of law, respect human dignity, and believe firmly that every nation, regardless of size, deserves respect, recognition, and the right to determine its own future.These shared values have brought Taiwan and Palau together for more than a quarter century. Today, I'd like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the National Congress, the government, and the people of Palau for standing firmly with Taiwan, and for consistently supporting Taiwan's meaningful participation in the international community.Palau has been one of Taiwan's strongest and most steadfast voices in important international forums, including the United Nations General Assembly, the World Health Assembly, and the United Nations climate process. Your support has enabled Taiwan to contribute more actively to the global community in areas such as public health, climate action, aviation safety, and the fight against transnational crime.Taiwan deeply values this friendship. We are committed, not only to standing together in international forums, but also to working together to improve the lives of our peoples through practical cooperation in healthcare, education, agriculture, renewable energy, tourism, digital development, and human resource development, including talent cultivation.Taiwan and Palau are bound not only by friendship, but by a shared vision for the future. We both seek sustainable economic growth, greater opportunities for our young people, protected marine resources, secure communities, and resilient societies. Together, we can help ensure that future generations inherit a Pacific region that is peaceful, prosperous, democratic, and free.As our societies become increasingly interconnected, new security challenges also emerge. In addition to the broader geopolitical security challenges, fraud, cybercrimes, drug trafficking, and other forms of transnational crime threaten communities across the Pacific. Taiwan is committed to being a trusted partner in strengthening law enforcement cooperation and safeguarding the security and well-being of our peoples.To further deepen this cooperation, I am honored to announce that Taiwan's Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau is prepared to assign designated personnel to Palau to work closely with the local relevant authorities and jointly address the growing challenges posed by cross-national crime.As island nations on the frontlines of climate change, Taiwan and Palau also share a responsibility to build resilience. Together, we can strengthen disaster preparedness, promote ocean stewardship, protect marine ecosystems, advance sustainable fisheries, and develop resilient and sustainable energy solutions. By sharing experience and working hand in hand, we can help ensure a safer and more sustainable future for our peoples.In December a couple years ago in 2024, Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te stood before this Congress and reaffirmed Taiwan's enduring partnership with Palau. Today, I'm honored to join you and reaffirm that commitment once again.Taiwan will continue to stand side by side with Palau as you have done with us. Together, our two island democracies can continue making meaningful contributions to peace, prosperity, sustainability, and freedom throughout the Pacific.And on that note, I'm happy to share with you a souvenir that we've put on your seats. It's a very small token, but a meaningful one. It's a souvenir of chocolate with wrapping that I personally designed myself, with the help of a combination of ChatGPT and Gemini, not only highlighting the main attractions of our two countries – for Taiwan, our food and bubble tea; for Palau, your beautiful oceans and natural ecosystem – but also adding the theme on the back of the chocolates that Taiwan and Palau are both islands of resilience, and we are stronger together.Now may the profound friendship between Taiwan and Palau continue to flourish, and indeed, we are stronger together.Mesulang (thank you)!Following this, the vice president, along with distinguished guests, proceeded to the National Capitol courtyard to receive a briefing on the drones donated by Taiwan. She and President Whipps then witnessed Vice Minister Ger formally present the drones on Taiwan's behalf, which were accepted by Minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development Ngiraibelas Tmetuchl on behalf of Palau. After the ceremony, attendees watched a drone demonstration, showcasing the concrete achievements of Taiwan-Palau cooperation in technology applications.Also in attendance at the event were Palauan Speaker of the House of Delegates Gibson Kanai, Vice President of the Senate Stevenson Kuartei, several members of the National Congress, and Ambassador-designate to Taiwan Gaafar J. Uherbelau.

On the morning of June 9 local time (morning of the same day Taipei time), Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao inspected the implementation of the Malakal Island development plan, after which she visited the Palau National Aquaculture Center and giant clam conservation center.After arriving at Long Island Park, Vice President Hsiao first heard a briefing by CECI Engineering Consultants on their development plan for the park as well as their introduction to Malakal Island. Accompanied by Palau Minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development Ngiraibelas Tmetuchl and Governor of Koror State Eyos Rudimch, the vice president then toured Long Island Park to better understand how Taiwan is assisting Palau in developing recreation facilities to be used by local residents and tourists.The vice president and her party then visited the Palau National Aquaculture Center and giant clam conservation center. At the aquaculture center, they inspected the rabbitfish seedling and fish breeding areas, as well as the sea cucumber and milkfish breeding ponds. They also listened to an explanation of the milkfish breeding program by the Taiwan Technical Mission and fed the fish in the milkfish pond. They then walked to the giant clam conservation center, where the Palau Bureau of Fisheries explained the current status of giant clam conservation efforts, and saw firsthand Palau’s achievements in aquaculture aimed at creating sustainable fisheries.Before concluding her itinerary, the vice president also took questions from the media. She stated that one of the tasks of this visit is to understand and witness the results of past bilateral efforts and cooperation. She mentioned that during that day’s visit to Long Island Park they heard the CECI Engineering Consultants team explain the relevant plans. She added that the team will continue to communicate with local residents in the future to ensure that all construction meets the needs of the local community and expressed hope that Palau will attract tourists not only with its marine scenery, but also by constructing facilities on land to create new attractions.The vice president also stated that the Palau National Aquaculture Center and giant clam conservation center are focal points of Taiwan-Palau cooperation. Over the past few years, she said, the Taiwan Technical Mission in Palau has been cultivating edible fish species including milkfish, benefitting local economic development. Since Palau places great importance on marine conservation, promoting the aquaculture industry remains a key developmental direction in terms of edible fish supply. The vice president also mentioned that on the previous day President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. personally explained to her his vision and plans for national development, which include promoting the aquaculture industry. She noted that President Whipps gave the example of milkfish, which he hopes can be used as bait for tuna in addition to being an edible fish species. In the future, she said, professional technical teams from Taiwan will continue to develop an industry model that balances Palau’s ecology and economic needs.Regarding the upcoming visit to the Belau National Hospital, the vice president pointed out that medical cooperation has always been an important area of collaboration between Taiwan and Palau, especially since both countries face labor shortages. She mentioned that Deputy Minister of Health and Welfare Lin Ching-yi (林靜儀) has visited Palau many times to understand local medical needs. Over the past few years, she said, thanks to efforts by the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Taiwan has continued to assist Palau in introducing new digital medical technologies, building digital infrastructure for telemedicine, and enhancing testing capacities. Whether it is a technical mission or medical team, she emphasized, it is clear that the cooperation between Taiwan and Palau has made tangible contributions to local residents, and it will continue to do so in the future.The vice president said that she believes all Taiwanese take pride in this work, because Taiwan is a force for good in the world. She pointed out that Taiwan, in its foreign diplomacy efforts, uses soft power and technology to assist its allies in achieving sustainable development that meets the needs of local residents while developing together in mutual prosperity, which is also the focus of the Palau Prosperity Project.Asked about the incident on June 8 in which a jeep was swept away by the rapidly rising waters of Fata’an Creek in Hualien, Taiwan, the vice president responded by stating that yesterday she had been monitoring the response to the incident. Fortunately, she said, with the full efforts of the search and rescue teams and the assistance of drones in the search, the trapped site manager has been successfully rescued, and is still receiving treatment in the hospital. She then wished him a speedy recovery.The vice president pointed out that Taiwan has high mountains and swift rivers, and faces various disasters brought on by earthquakes and climate change. The Fata’an Creek barrier lake disaster last year highlighted the challenges posed by climate change and geography, she said, and from the perspective of whole-of-society defense resilience, Taiwan must build rapid disaster prevention, recovery, and relief capacities. The vice president said she also hopes to share the relevant experiences with our allies in the future, as island nations like Palau, she said, likewise face numerous challenges brought on by climate change.The vice president also expressed concern over the gas explosion incident in Hsinchu and the flooding in various parts of Taiwan, stating that these accidents and disasters are heartbreaking. She also expressed gratitude to all the front-line personnel involved in rescue efforts, and emphasized that the disaster prevention capacities of Taiwanese society in dealing with various emergencies has always been an issue of great importance to President Lai Ching-te.Palau Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Environment Steven Victor also attended these activities.

At noon on June 10 local time (morning of the same day Taipei time), Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao hosted an appreciation banquet in the Republic of Palau. In remarks, Vice President Hsiao expressed her gratitude to the Palauan government for its assistance and support during the delegation's visit, which fully demonstrated the deep friendship between the two countries. The vice president stated that during her visit, she toured many places and witnessed the accomplishments of collaboration in areas such as agriculture, aquaculture, education, construction, and healthcare. She expressed confidence that this exchange will help deepen cooperation, and that the two sides will continue to work together to promote tourism development, foster sustainable economic growth, and create greater opportunities for the peoples of both nations.A transcript of Vice President Hsiao's remarks follows:It's a great honor to host today's thank-you luncheon as a small token of appreciation for the warm hospitality and friendship that the people of Palau and government have extended to our delegation throughout the past few days. It's our fifth day here, but it feels time is so short. But thank you for a very productive trip. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to President [Surangel S.] Whipps, [Jr.] and his administration, and also to the National Congress and all of those who have worked so hard behind the scenes to make this visit productive. As this is my first official overseas visit to a diplomatic ally since assuming office as vice president, Palau will always hold a very special place in my heart.During my stay, I've had the opportunity to experience some of Palau's most remarkable treasures, from the breathtaking waters of the German Channel and Shark City to the historic island of Peleliu. These experiences have deepened my appreciation for Palau's extraordinary natural beauty, rich culture, and resilient spirit. I sincerely hope that more people from Taiwan will have the same opportunity to visit Palau and experience its unique charm for themselves.I was also honored during this trip to visit the National Congress, attend the construction ceremony for the interstate road project, visit with members of the Taiwan Technical Mission, and witness the accomplishments from collaboration in agriculture, aquaculture, education, and digital assistance. We were also briefed by [CECI Engineering Consultants] on proposed projects to improve the landmark Long Island Park and the quality of biking and pedestrian walking paths in the state of Koror. We also appreciated Vice President [Raynold] Oilouch's arrangements to tour Belau National Hospital and hear about Taiwan's public health contributions to Palau in a briefing from the Shin Kong Hospital medical professionals. But of course, our public health collaboration extends way beyond the hospital-to-hospital partnerships. Even in my walks and roaming around this hotel, I have run into a number of Taiwanese medical doctors who are here on volunteer medical missions. And I'm so pleased that members of Taiwan society, experts in all walks of life, are able to contribute and take part in the strength of the Taiwan-Palau relationship.Furthermore, throughout this trip, we have had extended conversations, including with some traditional leaders, but also with the people of Palau, about our shared Austronesian and indigenous cultural connections between us. Each of these engagements reflected the strength of our partnership and demonstrated how cooperation between Taiwan and Palau continues to deliver and develop tangible benefits for both our peoples. I'm confident that this visit will help further deepen our cooperation as we work together to support President Whipps' vision for tourism development, promote sustainable economic growth, and create greater opportunities for our people.For today's luncheon, we have brought some Taiwan-grown taro and invited the hotel's talented chefs to prepare a Taiwanese-flavor dish, and others of course. I understand that taro holds a special place in Palauan and Pacific culture and daily life. I've had a taste of different versions of taro leaf soup during my stay here. But I hope that our friends can enjoy a Taiwanese-flavored taro dish too, among the many dishes that we are offering today.In closing, please allow me to once again express my sincere appreciation to President Whipps and his team for their exceptional hospitality, leadership, and friendship. I wish all of you good health, happiness, and continued success in your endeavors. And may the friendship between Taiwan and Palau continue to grow stronger for generations. Thank you. Mesulang.President Whipps then delivered remarks, expressing his gratitude to Vice President Hsiao on behalf of the Palauan government and people for choosing Palau as the destination for her first official overseas visit. He mentioned that Vice President Hsiao visited many places during this trip and introduced Palau through the media, encouraging more Taiwanese tourists to visit and further deepening the friendship between the peoples of the two countries.President Whipps pointed out that Vice President Hsiao's visit and address to the Palau National Congress once again demonstrated the firm commitment of Taiwan and Palau to jointly create prosperity and defend freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. He also reaffirmed support for Taiwan's meaningful participation in the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, and other international agencies, allowing Taiwan to contribute to the international community. Expressing his gratitude, he noted that Taiwan has contributed greatly to improving the lives of the Palauan people, including delivering medicines and saving lives with drones, as well as providing long-term assistance in improving Palau's infrastructure for roads, water conservancy, healthcare, education, and fishing ports.President Whipps stated that both Palau and Taiwan are islands of resilience, standing united in the face of various challenges such as war and the pandemic. Noting that both sides belong to the Austronesian family, he said they will continue to work together and develop jointly in the future, deepening the diplomatic ties and partnership between the two countries, and safeguarding peace and prosperity in this beautiful Pacific region. In closing, he once again thanked Vice President Hsiao for her visit and asked her to convey his greetings and regards to President Lai Ching-te.Also in attendance at the banquet were First Lady Valerie Whipps, Vice President Oilouch, Queen Bilung Gloria Salii, Speaker of the House of Delegates Gibson Kanai, Vice President of the Senate Stevenson Kuartei, Minister of Justice Jennifer Olegeriil, and Minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development Ngiraibelas Tmetuchl.