Taiwan President Lai Embarks on Pacific Tour, Meets Guam Governor and Senator

The Republic of China (Taiwan), officially known as Taiwan, has embarked on a Pacific tour, visiting several countries in the region to strengthen diplomatic ties. As part of his visit, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te met with Northern Marianas governor Arnold Palacios and Senator Celina Babauta at Guam.

Meeting with Guam Governor Leon Guerrero

On December 4, 2024, Lai arrived in a private jet at Guam’s A.B. Won Pat International Airport. He was welcomed by Guam Governor Leon Guerrero, who said that meeting Lai could pave the way for improved relations with Taiwan.

“We must turn our economy around,” said Babauta, who attended the luncheon as part of the island leaders. “This is an opportunity I could not pass up on.” She also expressed her desire to explore new avenues for cooperation between the CNMI and Taiwan, particularly by leveraging the Jones Act waiver.

Taiwan’s Pacific Tour

Lai’s visit to Guam marks the second leg of his Pacific tour, which aims to strengthen diplomatic ties with countries in the region. The trip comes as Taiwan faces increasing pressure from China, which has been critical of Lai’s visit to several US cities earlier this year.

Earlier this year, China demanded that the Pacific Islands Forum leaders’ summit conference communiqué be rewritten to eliminate a reference to Taiwan. The document had made a reference to the Forum reaffirming its relations with Taiwan, which has been a development partner since 1992.

However, the Chinese Ambassador to the Pacific Qian Bo was furious about the language used in the document and demanded changes. China’s Foreign Ministry later condemned US support for Lai’s visit to the US and lodged a complaint with the United States.

Nauru Cuts Ties with Taiwan

Nauru, a small Pacific island nation, recently cut ties with Taiwan and shifted its diplomatic allegiance to Beijing. This move has weakened Taiwan’s position in the region, but Lai remains committed to strengthening relations with countries that still maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taipei.

In January, Nauru pledged its support for Taiwan, despite facing pressure from China. This move has helped to maintain some stability in the region and demonstrates Lai’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties with countries that still recognize Taiwan.

Luncheon at Hyatt Regency Guam

The luncheon between Lai and Babauta was held at the Grand Ballroom, Hyatt Regency Guam, as part of Taiwan’s “Smart and Sustainable Development for a Prosperous Austronesian Region” program. The event is expected to also involve Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and other island leaders.

Lai has previously visited Hawaii as part of his US tour, which has been met with criticism from the government of the People’s Republic of China.

In conclusion, Lai’s Pacific tour marks an effort by Taiwan to strengthen diplomatic ties in the region. Despite facing challenges and criticism from China, Taiwan remains committed to maintaining its position as a major player in regional affairs.