TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau observed a pivotal conversation between Taiwan's envoy Lin Hsin-i (林信義) and U.S. President Joe Biden at the APEC Leaders' Informal Dialogue in Lima, Peru, on Friday (Nov. 15). Lin, representing President Lai Ching-te (賴清德), expressed gratitude to Biden for strengthening Taiwan-U.S. relations over the past four years, according to Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Lin's Friday schedule included attending the APEC Leaders' Informal Dialogue, a luncheon with APEC Business Advisory Council representatives, and a dinner with leaders, MOFA reported. On Thursday, Lin met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to discuss strengthening bilateral partnerships and regional peace, as well as Taiwan's diplomatic allies' development. Blinken shared a photo on social media of him and Lin shaking hands, emphasizing discussions on economic relations and a commitment to a peaceful Indo-Pacific.
The APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting serves as a crucial platform for the 21-member trade bloc, where leaders often engage in discussions on the sidelines. Lin, who attended APEC meetings in 2000, 2001, and 2005, is chairman of Taiwania Capital Management Corp. and a senior presidential advisor. He has previously served as economic affairs minister and vice premier.
Since 1991, Taiwan has been a full APEC member under the name "Chinese Taipei," sending special envoys to the annual leaders' meeting due to Chinese pressure. The recent interactions at APEC underscore Taiwan's ongoing diplomatic efforts amid complex geopolitical dynamics. Observers will closely watch for further developments in Taiwan's international collaborations and regional influence.