A group of representatives from diplomatic allies in the Pacific is visiting Taiwan to learn more about the nation’s development, as part of the country’s cultural diplomacy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said yesterday.
Twenty-eight people from Kiribati, Nauru, Palau, Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu are taking part in a “Taiwan Study Camp,” in which they will attend seminars on Taiwan-China ties, democracy, economy, healthcare and a variety of other topics, the ministry said.
Participants in the 10-day camp that began on Monday will also meet Taiwanese who have taken part in “youth ambassador” programs overseas, said James Tien (田中光), director-general of the ministry’s Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs.
Photo: CNA
Among the participants, all of whom are visiting Taiwan for the first time, is Jacob -Yangilmau, governor of Sonsorol State in Palau.
The seminars are helping him learn about the development of Taiwan’s democracy and economy, Yangilmau said, adding that they are useful experiences for his position as a state governor.
Asked about what has impressed him the most about Taiwan, Yangilmau cited Taiwan’s transport infrastructure and the hospitality of the people.
“Since the camp kicked off on Monday, we’ve gained a better sense of Taiwan’s economic and cultural achievements,” said Denise de Brum, a participant from the Marshall Islands.
Other participants in the camp include government officials at the middle and entry levels, members of the media and business representatives.
They are scheduled to visit a vegetable center, the Council of Agriculture’s Fisheries Research Institute, Konta Integrated Network Engineering Co, the National Center for Traditional Arts and the World Vision Taiwan charity group, the ministry said.
Initiated in 2010, the camp aims to strengthen ties of friendship between Taiwan and its Pacific allies and to increase understanding of Taiwan, according to the ministry.
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