Taiwan's foreign minister to visit Palau for Pacific Islands Forum summit
Taiwan is making a diplomatic push in the Pacific, a modest but meaningful win for Taipei as it works to hold onto its shrinking circle of allies.
- Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung heads to Palau on August 27 for events tied to the Pacific Islands Forum summit, staying through early September.
- He will meet Palau's president and vice president, and hold side talks with Taiwan's remaining Pacific allies and friendly delegations.
- The trip showcases Taiwan's work in the region on clean energy, digital networks, infrastructure, and healthcare, with a trade show attached.
- Business groups and companies in energy, tech, food, construction, and organic farming are joining the delegation to chase deals and investment.
- The push fits President Lai Ching-te's plan to expand Taiwan's economic reach abroad as China keeps peeling away its diplomatic partners.
Outlook: Expect Taiwan to keep courting Pacific island states with aid and business ties, while Beijing works the same room in the opposite direction.