TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi (陳明祺) on Monday hoped for closer cooperation with US New England states.

During a banquet for a New England legislative delegation, Chen said that Taiwan and New England each have their own strengths in trade, the economy, and education, according to the foreign ministry. Both sides can deepen cooperation in higher education and high-tech industries, he said.

Chen pointed out that 23 US states and Guam have already established offices in Taiwan, and hoped New England states would do the same. He also wished to see more reciprocal driver’s license agreements with the region to facilitate more people-to-people exchanges.

The delegation, comprising lawmakers from Rhode Island, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts, arrived in Taiwan on Monday for a six-day trip. The two sides exchanged views on Taiwan-US trade and investment, high-tech industry cooperation, talent cultivation, and energy security.

Rhode Island Senate President Pro Tempore Hanna M. Gallo praised Taiwan’s freedom and openness. She suggested both sides strengthen cooperation in education and technology, given that New England is home to many prestigious universities and is a research hub.

The foreign ministry said it was eager to deepen partnerships in the US based on shared democratic values.