Overview:
A delegation of lawmakers from Taiwan wrapped up a three-day visit to Palau this week, reaffirming strong legislative ties and ongoing cooperation between the two partners. The visit included meetings with Palauan leaders, discussions on investment-related legislation, and exchanges aimed at strengthening people-to-people and economic links.
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
Koror, Palau — A four-member delegation from Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan visited Palau this week for a three-day goodwill visit aimed at strengthening parliamentary ties and ongoing cooperation between the two partners.
The delegation, part of the Taiwan-Palau Friendship Association, arrived Monday and departed Wednesday night, according to the Taiwan Embassy in Palau. Embassy officials said the visit was a routine friendly exchange, noting that the association last visited Palau in 2024.
Third Secretary Jimmy Kao of the Taiwan Embassy said Taiwan maintains numerous legislative friendship associations with countries around the world, including both diplomatic allies and nations with which Taiwan does not have formal diplomatic relations. He said the associations are designed to promote cooperation and engagement with like-minded partners.
During their stay, the visiting lawmakers took part in a dinner reception with Palau’s legislators on their first evening, attended by 12 delegates and five senators. The delegation also toured the Rock Islands, met with members of the Palau-Taiwan Chamber of Commerce, and visited the Taiwan Technical Mission.
The group made courtesy visits to the Taiwan Embassy and to Palau’s Vice President at the One-Stop Shop building, the embassy said.
Hatohobei State Delegate Marino said discussions with Palauan lawmakers included the proposed elite visa bill currently pending in the House of Delegates. The bill would allow for special visas with favorable terms aimed at attracting potential investors.
Kao said the legislation was only briefly discussed but noted that it could offer mutual benefits for both Palau and Taiwanese investors if enacted.
The delegation departed Palau on Wednesday night and was scheduled to return to Taipei to attend the opening session of Taiwan’s legislature on Thursday.