Tuvalu PM reaffirms support for Taiwan in latest visit

Tuvalu Prime Minister Kausea Natano reaffirmed the Pacific Island nation’s support for Taiwan in his latest visit to the island nation. The support by the nation toward Taiwan also comes amidst tensions with China.

During a welcome ceremony in Taipei hosted by Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen, Natano reaffirmed its support and commitment to Taiwan. Natano said “decent and common values” were always a strength of the relations between Tuvalu and Taiwan.

Both nations have had diplomatic ties for 40 years, with Tuvalu being one of the 14 countries that hold diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

“Through tumultuous times of geostrategic agendas, we continue to stand firm in our commitment to remain a lasting and loyal ally of the Republic of China,” said Natano, referring to Taiwan by its formal name.

“I recognize the cornerstones of our diplomatic ties, involving two nations founded on the principles of democracy, trust, human rights, and the freedom of the individual.”

This marks Natano’s first trip to Taiwan as prime minister since his election back in 2019.

Tsai also praised the friendship between the two nations, thanking Tuvalu for speaking up for Taiwan on the world stage while also supporting its international participation. Two Pacific countries ended diplomatic relations with Taiwan in 2019 in favor of China: the Solomon Islands and Kiribati.

The visit also comes at a time when the Pacific Island nations, especially the Solomon Islands, became a focal point in the growing dispute between China and the United States in the region. The Solomon Islands has had tense relations with the US since agreeing on a security pact with China this year.

The Pentagon announced last week that the US State Department had approved a potential $1.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan.

The Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency said the arms package to Taiwan would include 60 anti-ship missiles, 100 air-to-air missiles, as well as contractor logistics support for a surveillance radar program.

A State Department spokesperson said the latest arms package was important for Taiwan’s security. China’s foreign ministry has demanded that Washington revoke the sale to Taiwan. The United States is legally bound to provide Taiwan with arms.