by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer
President William Lai arrived in the Marshall Islands today, following his visit to Hawaii as part of his Pacific tour. The Marshall Islands is one of the last 12 nations to officially recognize Taiwan.
Upon his arrival in the capital, Majuro, Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine warmly welcomed Lai, who is set to engage in discussions with government officials and attend a banquet.
During their meeting, Lai emphasized the shared traditional Austronesian culture and values of freedom and democracy between Taiwan and the Marshall Islands, speaking through an interpreter.
Lai’s trip, his first overseas visit since taking office in May, began with a two-day stay in Hawaii where he addressed “China’s military threats” to Taiwan in a conversation with US Representative Nancy Pelosi and met with various US officials and Congress members.
After the Marshall Islands, Lai plans to visit Taiwan’s other Pacific allies, Tuvalu and Palau, and will make a brief stop in Guam.
The Marshall Islands, located midway between Hawaii and Australia, has a longstanding agreement with the US that ensures security and financial support, granting the US military access to its territory.
Lai expressed a familial bond between Taiwan and the Marshall Islands, stating, “We are close partners who support each other,” and highlighted their mutual backing over the years.
In a speech to the parliament, Lai announced that Taiwan would offer a “preferential loan” to state-owned Air Marshall Islands for new aircraft purchases. He also mentioned Taiwan’s commitment to build a pig slaughterhouse next year to enhance food security in the Marshall Islands.
Lai expressed gratitude to Heine for advocating for Taiwan at this year’s Pacific Islands Forum, the UN General Assembly, and COP29.
