TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Legislative Yuan, Taiwan's parliament, Deputy Speaker Chiang Chi-chen (江啟臣) met with Palau's Speaker Gibson Kanai Tuesday (Sept. 23). Chiang emphasized Palau's strategic importance as one of Taiwan's most significant Pacific allies. The meeting highlighted diplomatic cooperation between the two island nations.
Kanai leads a delegation to Taiwan from Monday through Friday (Sept. 22 to 27), expressing gratitude for Taiwan's assistance in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The Palauan speaker highlighted Taiwan's support for Palau's parliamentary digital transformation. Kanai's visit includes meetings with KMT Legislator Huang Ren (黃仁) and DPP Legislator Jean Kuo (郭昱晴).
Chiang noted bilateral ties between the countries spanning over 25 years during his speech to the delegation. The deputy speaker mentioned welcoming Palauan parliamentary delegations three times in the past year. Chiang highlighted extensive cooperation in tourism, ecological conservation, marine preservation, agriculture, and technology.
Chiang highlighted shared values of freedom, democracy, rule of law, and peace between the island nations. Kanai likened the Taiwan-Palau partnership to a familial bond, emphasizing joint democracy efforts. The Palauan speaker thanked Taiwan through a translator for infrastructure, agriculture, education, and healthcare support while inviting continued investment. ◼
