TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) attended the launch of Taipei International Travel Fair on Friday, promoting stronger tourism exchanges with Taiwan’s diplomatic partners.

Lai visited the Central American pavilion and was joined by Transportation Minister Chen Shih-kai (陳世凱), and Deputy Foreign Minister Wu Chih-chung (吳志中), per CNA. Belize Ambassador Katherine Vanessa Meighan, Guatemala Ambassador Luis Raul Estevez Lopez, and Central America Trade Office Director Hsu Shao-hui (徐韶慧) were also present.

Co-organized by the Central America Trade Office with Belize and Guatemala, the pavilion highlights travel opportunities in Taiwan’s allies through interactive exhibits and cultural performances.

Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Eswatini also joined the fair. After the opening, Lai visited their booths to reaffirm friendship.

Belize’s Meighan said her country and Taiwan share 36 years of close diplomatic ties and invited Taiwanese tourists to explore Belize’s jungles, Mayan ruins, and the world-famous Great Blue Hole.

Hsu said Taiwan’s Central American allies offer rich natural and cultural attractions. She added that agencies are set to launch monthly tours to Belize and Guatemala next month.

Taiwan maintains formal diplomatic relationships with 11 countries, including Belize, Guatemala, and the Vatican.