Taiwan's President to Visit Pacific Allies in Diplomatic Push
President Lai Ching-te's trip to three Pacific nations aims to bolster Taiwan's diplomatic ties as China expands its influence in the region.
- Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te will visit the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau from November 30 to December 6 to strengthen ties with the island nation's remaining Pacific allies.
- The trip underscores Taiwan's efforts to maintain its limited formal diplomatic relationships as China continues to pressure nations to sever ties with Taipei.
- China has made significant inroads in the Pacific, offering loans, grants, and security agreements, raising concerns in the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand about Beijing's growing influence.
- Taiwan has not confirmed whether Lai will transit through the United States, a common practice that has previously provoked strong reactions and military drills from China.
- The visit highlights Taiwan's strategy to resist China's diplomatic isolation efforts while asserting its right to engage with international partners.