Taiwan President Lai Ching-te has hailed Tuvalu as one of Taiwan’s strongest supporters on the global stage, using a state banquet in Taipei to praise deepening cooperation and a series of new agreements that he says “lay a formidable foundation” for the two nations’ partnership.
Hosting Prime Minister Feleti Teo and his wife at a luncheon on Tuesday, President Lai said Tuvalu’s backing has been decisive in ensuring Taiwan’s voice is heard internationally.
“On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to especially thank Tuvalu for taking concrete action at various international venues in staunch defence of Taiwan’s right to international participation,” Lai said.
He highlighted Prime Minister Teo’s support at the Pacific Islands Forum in September and at the United Nations General Assembly, noting Teo’s push for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the UN system.
“UNGA Resolution 2758 does not preclude Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the UN system,” Lai quoted Teo as telling world leaders.
Lai said the bilateral relationship has strengthened since Teo took office more than a year ago, pointing to the signing of multiple agreements-including the historic Taiwan-Tuvalu Kaitasi Treaty, an Agreement on Diversifying Fisheries Cooperation, and a Letter of Intent on Sports Exchange and Cooperation.
“We have signed numerous agreements… which have helped lay a formidable foundation for our diplomatic ties,” Lai said.
“Let us work closely together to defend democracy, maintain peace, and contribute to the prosperity and development of both countries.”
Prime Minister Teo, responding at the banquet, called the day “profoundly significant,” noting it began with “a magnificent military parade” and continued with “a substantive, fruitful, and highly productive bilateral meeting” with President Lai.
He said the signing of the Kaitasi Treaty delivered on the commitment both leaders made during Lai’s state visit to Tuvalu in December last year “to further strengthen and enhance the relationship between Tuvalu and Taiwan.”
Teo said the new agreements on fisheries cooperation and sports and cultural exchanges further demonstrate the two countries’ shared priorities.
“The moment that both sides shared reminded them once again of the enduring friendship, mutual respect, and shared values that unite Tuvalu and the Republic of China (Taiwan),” he said.
Teo described the state banquet as symbolising “the bond of family, cooperation, and shared purpose that underpin the new kaitasi relationship,” adding that it reflects “a bond of friendship grounded in mutual respect, loyalty, and trust.”
The Tuvalu leader reaffirmed his country’s commitment to Taiwan: “Tuvalu continues to stand steadfastly in support of Taiwan’s effort to reengage fully in international relations.”
He said the kaitasi principles “shared destiny, shared responsibility, and a shared future” would guide future cooperation. “We look forward to continuing this journey together as trusted partners,” Teo said.
Tuvalu Ambassador Lily Tangisia Faavae also attended the banquet.
