BY PAULY SUBA and MAUREEN N. MARATITA
Journal Staff
President Lai Ching-te of Taiwan and Gov. Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero of Guam highlighted the relationship between Taiwan and Guam during a joint press conference, followed by breakfast at Government House on Dec. 5. The visit marks Lai’s first stopover in Guam since assuming office in May.
“Your visit marks a significant chapter in the relationship between our two islands,” Leon Guerrero said emphasizing shared values, respect for family, community, and cultural heritage. “Taiwan’s spirit of generosity has long been an inspiration to our people,” she said, recalling Taiwan’s donation of 200,000 face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also said Taiwan’s investments in Guam have bolstered the island’s economy and created opportunities fostering mutual prosperity.
Leon Guerrero celebrated the announced resumption of direct flights between Guam and Taiwan, including the United Airlines upcoming Taipei-Guam route in April 2025 and the recently relaunched China Airlines service. “These flights will do more than carry travelers. They will carry opportunities for business and cultural exchange, creating stronger ties between our communities,” she said.
Lai reciprocated Leon Guerrero’s sentiments, expressing optimism for future cooperation. “I truly appreciate Governor Leon Guerrero welcoming my delegation at the airport yesterday and inviting me to be here to have tea this morning,” Lai said. He said that before the pandemic, 30,000 Taiwanese tourists visited Guam annually, making Taiwan the third-largest source of tourists for the island.
Lai outlined areas for further collaboration, including health care, aquaculture, hydroculture, engineering, construction, and alternative energy. He also highlighted the Austronesian roots shared by the Chamorro people of Guam and Taiwan’s indigenous populations. “Taiwan and Guam are like families, and we also are like-minded partners,” Lai said. “In the face of authoritarianism, all like-minded countries and areas must unite and collaborate to safeguard democracy, peace, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.”
The visit also celebrated cultural exchange. Leon Guerrero presented Lai with a stained-glass mosaic plaque by local artist Mark Murer, depicting Guam’s iconic latte stones and coconut trees. She also gifted him her official challenge coin, bearing the Guam seal.
Leon Guerrero also underlined the enduring partnership between Guam and Taiwan. “Today is not just a celebration of what we have achieved together, but a reaffirmation of our commitment to a shared future. Let us continue to build on the strong foundation of trust, respect, and mutual benefit that defines our relationship,” she said.
Lai highlighted the collaborative efforts of both governments. “In the past, with the support of Governor Leon Guerrero and the Guam Legislature, Taiwan and Guam have stood shoulder-to-shoulder in striving to protect our shared values,” he said. “In the years ahead, I look forward to Taiwan and Guam continuing to strengthen cooperation in all areas so as to create even greater well-being for both our peoples.”
At lunch the same day for about 300 invited guests at the Hyatt Regency Guam the speeches referred to similar themes.
Ambassador Alexander Tah-Ray Yui of The Republic of China (Taiwan) to the U.S.; hosted the lunch and referred in his open remarks to a common background of the two peoples as Pacific islanders and a common destiny. The two islands are “all part of the first island chain,” he said. The first island chain stretches from Indonesia to Japan, including the South and East China Seas.
Ingrid D. Larson, managing director of the American Institute in Taiwan – which represents U.S. interests in the country, referred to Taiwan as “the leading democracy in the Pacific region,” and said peace and stability in the region are critical. “We fully support President Lai’s approach,” Larson said.
Albert Wu, president of FADA Investments LLC and president of the United Chinese Association of Guam, said of Lai’s visit, “It speaks volumes of the relationship between Guam and Taiwan, that he stopped here.”
While security was evident throughout the ballroom, the atmosphere was cordial and sometimes relaxed.
Gov. Arnold I. Palacios joked at how full the lunch was. “It seems that everybody wants to welcome you to Guam,” he said. Palacios, who was recently in Guam to attend the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office’s national day celebration in October, said of the Northern Mariana Islands and Taiwan, “We look forward to an enduring relationship despite the geopolitical environment.”
Leon Guerrero said to Lai, “Like you we recognize the importance of innovation and sustainability.” She referred to the relationship between Guam and Taiwan, saying, “We know that strength lies in unity.” She also referred to the two individuals being medical professionals. “How amazing that a physician from Taiwan and a nurse from Guam are working to uplift their people.”
Lai referred to the three Pacific countries and two stopovers as sharing the same Austronesian roots with Taiwan. “So, we are one big family and everywhere I go, I feel deeply connected to the local people.” He spoke of shared values such as democracy, freedom and human rights. He also spoke of the resolutions from Guam Legislatures that have supported Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly and the World Health Organization, copies of which he was given. “Based on these resolutions, Taiwan and Guam will certainly be able to create even greater friendly cooperation …,” he said.
Lai called on all attendees, “Not to bow down to authoritarian regimes.” He said, “I hope you continue to support Taiwan and have faith in Taiwan.” mbj
Taiwan president visits Guam, strengthens ties
Taiwan president visits Guam, strengthens ties
- Date Posted: Dec 05, 2024
- News: Guam
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Taiwan president visits Guam, strengthens ties