Foreign Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu (left), Marshall Islands Ambassador Anjanette Kattil (center) and Andrea Bowman, St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ ambassador to Taiwan and head of the foreign diplomatic corps in the country, celebrate the Marshall Islands’ Constitution Day May 3 in Taipei City. (MOFA)

Foreign Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu took part in an event celebrating the Marshall Island’s 45th Constitution Day May 3 in Taipei City, pledging to continue working with the Pacific island state to advance the development and well-being of both parties.

At a reception organized by the Embassy of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the minister offered sincere congratulations on behalf of Taiwan’s government and people on the anniversary of the recognition of the Marshall Islands as an independent country.

According to Wu, since establishing official ties 26 years ago, the allies have cooperated closely in the areas of agriculture, capacity building, climate change, food security, infrastructure, public health, talent cultivation and women’s empowerment, all with great success.

During that time, the Marshall Islands has firmly supported Taiwan’s participation in the U.N. and its affiliated bodies, such as the World Health Organization and U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change, as well as the International Civil Aviation Organization and Interpol.

The Marshall Islands’ parliament also recently passed two resolutions reaffirming support for the robust bilateral ties and Taiwan’s global participation, the minister said, adding that such strong backing is sincerely appreciated.

Ambassador Anjanette Kattil said the two countries both value democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights, in addition to sharing Austronesian heritage. On behalf of President Hilda Heine, Kattil thanked Taiwan for the continuous assistance in advancing development in her home country, and said she looks forward to expanding the partnership with Taiwan across the board.

Describing the Marshall Islands as an unwavering Pacific ally, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the government will continue cultural exchanges and enhance cooperation with its steadfast ally to promote peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. (SFC-E)