Taiwan is using drones and food diplomacy to shore up its shrinking circle of Pacific allies, a modest but pointed push against China's influence in the region.

• Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung handed drones to Palau during a "Taiwan Night" event tied to the Pacific Islands Forum summit.
• The gift comes with an offer of training and industry tie-ups, pitching Taiwan as a tech partner rather than just a donor.
• Palau is one of the few countries left that still recognizes Taiwan, and President Whipps publicly reaffirmed the friendship.
• Taiwan also brought taro pastries from Taichung, with talk of helping Palau build its own products from a crop both places grow.

Outlook: Expect Taiwan to keep leaning on drones and training deals to hold its remaining Pacific allies as China courts the same governments.