TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan Minister of Justice Cheng Ming-chien (鄭銘謙) and Marshall Islands Minister of Justice, Immigration and Labor Wisely Zackhras signed the Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters on Wednesday, aiming to jointly combat transnational crimes.

During the signing ceremony, Cheng said that since the two countries established diplomatic ties in 1998, they have cooperated in numerous areas, including public health and infrastructure, according to a Marshall Islands embassy press release. He also highlighted the shared democratic values between the two countries, which serve as a solid foundation for bilateral relations. 

The minister thanked the Marshall Islands for supporting Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the UN and related organizations like Interpol. 

Zackhras said the agreement underscores the Marshall Islands’ commitment to the security and well-being of its people and reaffirms the friendship with Taiwan. The minister hoped to work closely with Cheng to strengthen legal cooperation, combat transnational crimes, and strengthen peace, security, and prosperity. 

Zackhras is in Taiwan for a five-day visit, during which he will attend a luncheon hosted by Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍). He will also stop at Taiwan’s National Police Agency, National Immigration Agency, and Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau to hold discussions.