Taiwan is working on visa entry privileges for visitors from the eight member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). That’s the word from Foreign Minister David Lee on Wednesday.
The move is in line with President Tsai Ing-wen’s “New Southbound Policy”. Lee said his office still needs to do more to open up visa entry privileges to ASEAN member nations. The first countries that are being considered are Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, with Thailand as first priority. Foreign ministry official Kung Chung-chen explained the visa privilege situation with Thailand.
“Thailand is our priority right now. Next would be the Philippines and Indonesia. We are close to completing negotiations with Thailand and just need to work out some details," said. "Now they are offering us landing visa privileges but we hope to enjoy better visa privileges.”
As for Taiwanese entering ASEAN nations, Lee said he is working on Vietnam granting visa free status for Taiwanese passport holders entering the country.
Meanwhile, Lee said there could be personnel changes in representatives stationed in Southeast Asian countries.