TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Presidential Office confirmed Thursday (Nov. 28) that President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) will transit through Hawaii (夏威夷) and Guam (關島) during his first diplomatic tour as head of state to three South Pacific allies. President Lai aims to strengthen Taiwan's ties with the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and the Republic of Palau.
Lai's itinerary begins Friday with a two-night stopover in Hawaii before visiting the Marshall Islands. During his stay there, Lai will meet with Speaker Brenson Wase and deliver a speech to the parliament. The visit to Tuvalu includes a brief five-hour stop to meet the prime minister and tour Nauti Primary School.
In Palau, Lai will hold bilateral talks with President Surangel Samuel Whipps Jr. and attend the inauguration of the joint government office building. Secretary-General Pan Meng-an (潘孟安) will inspect the new aquaculture center's mural and milkfish farming project in Palau.
Lai will conclude his South Pacific tour with a tea gathering with accompanying journalists in Palau before returning to Taiwan on Dec. 6.