Taiwan Strengthens Ties: New Labor Deal with Tuvalu Promises Enhanced Cooperation

Tuvalu Deputy Prime Minister's Visit Ushers in Agreements on Labor and Seafaring

Taipei, April 14 – In a significant move to bolster its international partnerships, Taiwan is set to sign two key agreements with Tuvalu during Deputy Prime Minister Panapasi Nelesone's five-day visit. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) announced that the agreements will focus on enhancing cooperation in the labor and seafaring sectors.

Nelesone and his delegation, including Foreign Labour and Trade Minister Paulson Panapa and Minister for Public Utilities & Environment Ampelosa Manoa Tehulu, were greeted by Vice Foreign Minister Remus Chen (陳立國) upon their arrival at Taoyuan International Airport.

The visit includes high-level meetings, with Nelesone scheduled to meet with President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍). A focal point of the visit will be the signing of a bilateral labor affairs cooperation agreement, alongside an accord that will allow Tuvalu to recognize Taiwan-issued seafarer certifications. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung will witness the signing alongside Nelesone.

Furthermore, the Tuvalu delegation plans to engage in discussions with the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Finance, and the TaiwanICDF (a government-funded foreign aid agency) to explore areas of mutual interest, signifying a broader effort to deepen ties and collaborate on development projects.