Taipei: Taiwan's government has taken significant steps to strengthen its relationship with Tuvalu by signing an agreement aimed at avoiding double taxation and donating funds for the maintenance of Tuvalu's first undersea cable. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung shared the development in a Facebook post during his visit to the Pacific ally as a special envoy of President Lai Ching-te.
According to Focus Taiwan, Lin arrived in Tuvalu early Wednesday local time and was warmly welcomed by senior Tuvaluan government officials. He attended a state banquet hosted by Prime Minister Feleti Teo, during which both parties signed an Agreement for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income. The agreement is expected to enhance trade relations and encourage Taiwanese investment in Tuvalu.
In addition to the taxation pact, Lin announced a donation from Taiwan to cover maintenance costs for Tuvalu's first undersea cable, "Vaka," aimed at bolstering the nation's communication infrastructure. The exact amount of the donation was not disclosed.
Lin expressed gratitude for Tuvalu's enduring support for Taiwan's participation in the international community. Highlighting the significance of his visit, Lin noted that it was his third trip to Tuvalu and his first overnight stay in the country.
The foreign minister and his ministry did not specify the duration of their stay, but according to a Tuvaluan media report, Lin and his delegation are scheduled to continue their trip in Tuvalu on Thursday local time before returning to Taipei later that day.