TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) welcomed diplomatic ally, Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine, on Tuesday.

Upon meeting, Heine said her nation is a strong ally of Taiwan and will continue to support Taiwan's participation in international organizations, including the United Nations. She hoped that this trip could deepen relations between the two countries.

Heine and a 19-person delegation arrived the previous evening at Taoyuan International Airport. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) met her at the airport, and she expressed gratitude to the people and government of Taiwan, per CNA. 

It is the 27th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two sides, Heine said. She said the partnership is rooted in shared democratic values, mutual respect, and a firm commitment to human rights and global cooperation.

Lai visited the Marshall Islands in December as part of a larger Austronesian regional tour, where he extended an invitation to Heine to visit Taiwan. Heine said she was honored to visit Taiwan and looked forward to fruitful discussions during her trip.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was the first visit by Heine since taking office as president. During her stay in Taiwan, she will receive a military salute from the president, attend a state banquet, and sign documents promoting bilateral cooperation between the two countries.