Tiny Tuvalu to ‘stand firm’ with Taiwan as Pacific competition grows

The leader of the Pacific island nation of Tuvalu pledged on a trip to Taiwan on Monday to “stand firm” on a commitment to lasting ties, drawing Taiwan’s thanks at a time of growing competition as China expands its influence in the region.
Tuvalu, with a population of about 10,000, is one of only 14 countries to retain full diplomatic relations with Chinese-claimed Taiwan, and one of four in the Pacific where Beijing and Washington are tussling for influence.
Speaking at a welcome ceremony in Taipei hosted by Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, Tuvalu Prime Minister Kausea Natano said “decent and common values” have always been an added strength to their bond after 43 years of relations.
Natano is on his first trip to Taiwan since being elected in 2019.