TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) will be visiting Taiwan's three Pacific allies on his first overseas trip since taking office in May, the Presidential Office announced on Friday (Nov. 22).

Presidential Office Spokesperson Kuo Ya-hui (郭雅惠) said at a press conference Lai will visit the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau from Nov. 30 to Dec. 6. This year marks the 26th, 45th, and 25th anniversaries of diplomatic relations with the three countries, respectively.

Lai will meet with Marshall Islands President Hilda C. Heine, Tuvalu's Prime Minister Feleti Teo, and Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. Lai will also give speeches at the parliaments of the Marshall Islands and Palau, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang (田中光).

Tien declined to comment on a recent Reuters report suggesting Lai might transit through Hawaii or Guam. Transit arrangements "are still being planned" and will be announced at an appropriate time, Tien said.

Tien called on China not to engage overseas Chinese in “unnecessary disruptions” during Lai's trip. Taiwan will work with its diplomatic missions and overseas communities to ensure that Lai's visit is not disturbed by unwarranted Chinese interference, he added.

The delegation will also include some business figures, although their identities have not been disclosed by the Presidential Office.