Tuvalu’s Prime Minister Feleti Teo arrived in Taiwan this week, where he met with President William Lai to discuss various matters of mutual interest. Teo, accompanied by an 11-member delegation, was greeted at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport by Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung.
Tuvalu stands as one of the few Pacific nations that maintains full diplomatic recognition of Taiwan, resisting Beijing’s attempts to lure nations away from their alliances through its One China policy. The delegation includes prominent leaders from two Tuvaluan islands, Tuitonga Pelosa of Niutao and Siose Teo of Funafuti, as noted by Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry.
Throughout his six-day visit, Teo is expected to engage with Lai and Lin in discussions focused on cooperative projects between their nations, aimed at strengthening bilateral diplomatic ties and fostering friendship. This marks Teo’s first state visit to Taiwan since assuming office in February of last year. Notably, he had previously made two trips to Taiwan last year: one for Lai’s inauguration in May and another for the Double Ten National Day celebrations in October.
This ongoing diplomatic relationship underscores Tuvalu’s commitment to maintaining its ties with Taiwan amid regional pressures, highlighting the importance of small island nations in the broader geopolitical landscape. Such visits not only solidify partnerships but also open avenues for future collaborative efforts in various sectors.