VP Hsiao to Visit Palau; MOFA Says It Will Follow Host's Lead on Meetings with US Officials

Central News Agency (Taipei, June 1) Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim will launch the 'Bo-Rong Project' to visit diplomatic ally Palau from June 6 to 10. When asked if there are plans to interact with US officials during this trip, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ko Pao-hsuan stated that Vice President Hsiao's visit is at the invitation of the Palauan government, and everything will be handled according to the host's convenience. Presidential Office spokesperson Kuo Ya-hui held a press conference this morning to explain the details of the Vice President's visit to the Republic of Palau. Media outlets are concerned about whether the Vice President plans to interact with US officials or diplomats, given that Palau is a staunch ally of the United States. Ko reiterated that the visit is by invitation of the Palauan government, and everything will follow the host's lead. The 2026 Navy Goodwill Fleet set sail at the end of February and has already visited diplomatic allies including the Marshall Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, Belize, and Guatemala, and began its return to the Pacific in May. Media also asked if the fleet plans to visit Palau in June and if the Vice President will visit to encourage the troops. Ko stated that the fleet is expected to leave Palau on June 4, while the Vice President's delegation arrives on June 6, so there will likely be no joint activities in Palau.