Tuvalu’s new ambassador to Taiwan, Bikenibeu Paeniu, presented his diplomatic credentials to President Tsai Ing-wen on Monday morning. A presentation ceremony on Monday morning marked the beginning of Paeniu’s tenure.
Tuvalu is Taiwan’s oldest ally in the Pacific region. The two countries established formal diplomatic relations in 1979, the same year the United States cut ties with Taiwan to recognize China.
President Tsai thanked Tuvalu for speaking up on Taiwan’s behalf at international organizations. She says that the two countries have recently expanded cooperation to include projects focusing on agriculture technology, talent development and green energy.
Paeniu said that Taiwan and Tuvalu are “true friends.” He says that Tuvalu will reciprocate Taiwan’s good will with trust and loyalty. The ambassador says that he will do his best to garner more support for Taiwan among Pacific countries.