Executing concrete-smashing stunts and somersaults, Taiwan’s marines performed yesterday at a northern port where civilians were given a rare chance to board three warships before the navy embarks on a “friendship” tour in the Pacific.
Three of the nation’s 12 formal diplomatic allies are in the Pacific — Tuvalu, the Republic of Palau and the Marshall Islands.
The three warships, known as the Dunmu Goodwill Fleet, are to travel there after circling Taiwan, stopping at various ports to showcase the soldiers’ athletic talents.
Photo: CNA
Yesterday, they were docked at the coastal city of Keelung where spectators cheered on the marines and snapped selfies with uniformed students from Taiwan’s naval academy joining the “friendship” tour.
“I think it allows more exposure for Taiwan when they visit places and perform,” said Scott Lin, who drove from nearby Taipei. “It will help with the situation that Taiwan is currently facing.”
The navy’s friendship tour is an annual event, but this visit comes as tensions have soared between Taiwan and China.
“As tensions are rising in the enemy situation, we hope to use this opportunity to put into practice the theories we have learned,” said Chen Kuan-ting, a student of Taiwan’s naval academy who would be on the warship as part of his graduation requirement.
The students are to undergo training on the warships, “getting familiar with life on the ships and the rules to follow,” he said.
An unfurled sign displayed by marines showcasing their martial arts skills read: “Support national defence, protect the homeland.”
However, not everyone visiting Keelung Harbor had cross-strait tensions on their minds.
“It is very rare that kids get to see a warship,” said Jean Chen, who brought her son so that he could board the vessels.
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