President Tsai Ing-wen received Palau President Tommy E. Remengesau Jr. at the Office of the President Nov. 12 in Taipei City, vowing to enhance relations with the western Pacific diplomatic ally across a broad spectrum of areas.
 
Bilateral ties have gone from strength to strength over the past two years, with cooperation projects spanning fields like agricultural development and medical training, Tsai said. Further bolstering such exchanges can help advance the well-being of the people of both sides, she added.
 
According to the president, as maritime nations committed to responsible growth, Taiwan and Palau can expand collaboration in environmental protection and marine conservation.
 
Tsai praised Remengesau’s high-quality, sustainable tourism policy, stating that Taiwan is working to support this laudable approach by increasing the number of direct flights between the countries and encouraging local holidaymakers to explore the beautiful island nation.
 
Describing Palau as a firm friend, Tsai said that robust ties are underscored by their shared Austronesian heritage. She cited the resolution reached during the Austronesian Forum Aug. 1 in Taipei to base the organization’s headquarters in Palau and secretariat in Taiwan.
 
The establishment of these facilities will further deepen bilateral exchanges, while enabling the two sides to work together in fostering dialogue among Austronesian partners throughout the region, Tsai said.
 
In response, Remengesau praised the strong bonds of friendship between the allies. Taiwan’s transformation from an agriculture-based economy to global technology powerhouse is an inspiration to Palau, he said, adding that the nation’s assistance in such areas as education, economic development and health care is deeply appreciated.
 
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Remengesau is leading an eight-member delegation on a four-day state visit, his second since Tsai’s inauguration in May 2016.
 
Prior to the meeting, Tsai accompanied Remengesau as he received a military honor guard outside the Office of the President. During the inspection, she expressed gratitude for Palau’s support of Taiwan’s international participation, including at the World Health Assembly in May and U.N. General Assembly in September.
 
Later the same day, Tsai also hosted a state banquet for the Palau president. The event was attended by dignitaries including first lady Debbie M. Remengesau, MOFA Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu and National Security Council Secretary-General David Tawei Lee. (SFC-E)

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