Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-Te is visiting the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau on his first overseas diplomatic trip, aiming to strengthen ties with Pacific allies. However, transit stops in Guam and Hawaii have drawn sharp criticism from Beijing.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning condemned the stopovers as provocative, accusing the U.S. and Taiwan of undermining the “one-China” policy.
Beijing considers any engagement between Taiwan’s leaders and U.S. officials a step toward promoting Taiwan’s independence, which it strongly opposes.
Singapore's Channel News Asia (CNA) quoted an unnamed official from Lai's office who confirmed the transit stops last week, with plans for private events, including meetings with Taiwanese expatriates.
Before departing, Lai framed his trip as part of a broader push for values-based diplomacy, focusing on sustainability, democracy, and peace. “This trip marks a new era in values-based diplomacy,” he said, emphasizing collaboration with allies to promote prosperity and stability.
The transit stops also underscore Guam’s strategic importance. As a key U.S. military hub in the Pacific, Guam plays a vital role in countering Beijing’s regional ambitions.
