Taiwan’s President Lai to embark on 1st overseas trip next week

William Lai Ching-te, who assumed presidency in May, to visit the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau from Nov. 30

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ISTANBUL (AA) - Taiwan’s President William Lai Ching-te will next week embark on his first overseas trip since taking office in May.

Beginning Nov. 30, Lai will visit the island nation’s three Pacific allies, including the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau, said the Taiwanese officials in Taipei.

His trip will conclude on Dec. 6. and may include transit through the US territories of Hawaii and Guam. There has been no official confirmation, or denial, from either Washington or Taipei that this will happen.

China, which considers Taiwan as its “breakaway province,” has warned the US against any such move.

During the three-nation trip, Lai will meet with Marshall Islands President Hilda C. Heine and Tuvalu's Prime Minister Feleti Teo, as well as Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr.

He will also address the parliaments of the Marshall Islands and Palau.

While Taipei has insisted on its independence since 1949, the number of its diplomatic allies has dwindled to 12 over the past decade.

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