Vice President Hsiao to Visit Palau on June 6; MOFA Emphasizes Safety and Dignity

Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim is scheduled to visit diplomatic ally Palau on June 6. Regarding potential variables such as China pressuring other countries to cancel flight permits, Presidential Office spokesperson Kuo Ya-hui stated that the diplomatic and national security teams have a comprehensive grasp of relevant intelligence. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) also stated that, upholding the principles of comfort, safety, convenience, and dignity, this visit will utilize direct flights. Following President Lai Ching-te's visit to Eswatini in early May, Kuo announced at a press conference that Vice President Hsiao will visit the Republic of Palau from June 6 to 10. The trip aims to achieve three goals: deepening bilateral ties, promoting sustainable tourism in Palau, and witnessing the results of Taiwan-Palau cooperation projects. This is Hsiao's first visit to a diplomatic ally since taking office. Media outlets expressed interest in the significance of choosing Palau as the first destination. Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs Remus Li-kuo Chen explained that this visit is at the invitation of the Palauan government, with Vice President Hsiao designated by President Lai to attend. Chen noted that since establishing diplomatic relations in 1999, the two sides have worked on many sustainable development projects. He hopes Vice President Hsiao and Palauan officials will witness these results and continue to promote construction projects beneficial to bilateral ties. Gifts will be planned around Taiwanese characteristics and marine themes. When asked if the government is conducting simulations for potential variables, given that President Lai's previous visit to Eswatini was hindered by Chinese pressure, Chen reiterated that the travel arrangements are based on the principles of comfort, safety, convenience, and dignity, with direct flights scheduled. Kuo added that the diplomatic and national security teams have a thorough grasp of all relevant intelligence.