Taiwan will strive to maintain its participation in the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) as a “development partner,” Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) said whilst visiting Palau, the host of this year’s forum. 

Speaking to traveling media on Wednesday morning, June 10, local time, Hsiao said Taiwan has long actively engaged in the PIF but is expected to continue facing various forms of obstruction and oppression from China. Despite these challenges, she expressed confidence that Taiwan will retain its established mode of participation and gain support from like-minded countries. 

“I think we will work hard to maintain past practices. Many of our like-minded partners, including the United States, have shown signs in recent years of withdrawing from certain international organizations and platforms under the Trump administration, but that has not affected their continued advocacy in the forums where they do participate, that Taiwan should have meaningful participation.”

Last year’s forum in the Solomon Islands barred Taiwan and other dialogue and development partners from attending under pressure from China. This year, however, Palau - one of Taiwan’s allies - is hosting the event.  

Hsiao noted Palau’s strong backing, citing President Surangel Whipps Jr.’s stance that all countries, regardless of size, deserve respect. She said Taiwan hopes to use the forum to highlight cooperative achievements with Palau.

Vice Foreign Minister Baushuan Ger (葛葆萱) added that Taiwan joined the PIF in 1992 as a Development Partner under the name Taiwan/Republic of China, and said support from the forum remains strong despite ongoing pressure from China.