Dr. Lin Chia-lung
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Republic of China (Taiwan)
January 17, 2025
(As Prepared for Delivery)
Ladies and gentlemen:
It's my great honor to lead a delegation to the Republic of Palau on behalf of President Lai to attend the inauguration ceremony of President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. and Vice President Raynold “Arnold” Oilouch. I met dignitaries from around the world, such as H.E. Hilda Heine, President of the Marshall Islands, H.E. Feleti Penitala Teo, Prime Minister of Tuvalu, H.E. Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia. The heads of state and ministers from the Pacific region gathering here show that all countries attach great significance to the inauguration ceremony.
Since I took office as Minister of Foreign Affairs, I have proposed "Integrated Diplomacy" which comprises three pillars: values-based diplomacy, alliance diplomacy and economic and trade diplomacy. We aim to utilize Taiwan’s model to help our brother Palau, develop its economy by promoting green tourism, clean energy, smart islands and other smart industries.
I take advantage of this opportunity to invite business representatives from different industries in Taiwan to visit Palau with me to explore investment opportunities. Over the past two days, business leaders visited many places like Babeldaob, Ngatpang harbor, Malakal Port and Rock Islands Southern Lagoon. The excursions not only demonstrate how beautiful Palau is, but also afford us a chance to observe where business opportunities lie.
Palau is full of possibilities when it comes to developing green, clean, and sustainable business. I believe that through our “Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project”, Taiwan and Palau can forge a win-win future based on our shared values of freedom and democracy.
Our two nations established diplomatic relations in 1999. Over the past quarter century, Palau has been Taiwan’s steadfast friend. We have weathered through many challenges together. In this 26th year of diplomatic relation, we are bound to have more and closer cooperation, and address regional and global challenges together.
Finally, I sincerely thank every friend for attending the dinner tonight. I wish everyone continued health and success.
Thank you! Mesulang! (梅蘇朗，帛琉語之謝謝)