TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Tuvalu's Prime Minister Feleti Teo and his wife embarked on a cultural and diplomatic visit to Taiwan on Wednesday (May 22), marking their presence at the inauguration ceremony of Taiwan's 16th president and vice president.
The visit, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and Ambassador Andrew Tung-heng Lin, representative to Tuvalu, included a unique culinary experience at CookInn Taiwan cooking class.
During the class, the Prime Minister's wife and distinguished guests dove into the art of Taiwanese cuisine, attempting to make local delicacies such as soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) and bubble tea for the first time. The culinary session turned into a display of soft diplomacy, with one member creatively shaping a dumpling into the form of Taipei 101, symbolizing the blend of cultures and friendship between the two nations.
Ambassador Lin showcased his cooking skills, humorously suggesting hosting a dumpling banquet in Tuvalu to honor their friends from allied countries. This gesture highlighted the importance of cultural exchange in strengthening international relationships.
The bubble tea, a beloved Taiwanese beverage, was particularly well-received by the Tuvaluan delegation. Tapioca pearls, made from sweet potato starch, drew a parallel to Tuvalu's traditional use of pulka (swamp taro) in their cuisine. This similarity fostered a sense of connection and appreciation among the guests, leading to repeated requests for refills.
The visit not only served as a platform for diplomatic engagement but also as a bridge between Taiwanese and Tuvaluan cultures, demonstrating the power of culinary diplomacy in forging stronger international ties. As the delegation continues their visit, the shared experiences and flavors are a testament to the enduring friendship and mutual respect between the two nations.
