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Basseterre, St. Kitts, April 10, 2026:
St. Kitts and Nevis marked a significant diplomatic milestone today with the arrival of a Taiwan Navy training squadron, the first such visit to the Federation in 23 years, underscoring the enduring partnership between the two nations.
The goodwill mission, comprising more than 700 officers, crew members, and cadets, forms part of Taiwan’s overseas training programme for senior midshipmen ahead of their graduation and commissioning. This visit represents the third naval call by Taiwan to St. Kitts and Nevis, following earlier engagements in 2002 and 2003.
A formal reception was held at Port Zante, attended by senior government and diplomatic officials, including Her Excellency the Governor-General Dame Marcella Liburd; Deputy Governor-General for Nevis, Her Honour Hyleeta Liburd; Prime Minister, Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew; Premier of Nevis, Honourable Mark Brantley; and Resident Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), His Excellency Edward Ling-Wen Tao.
In his remarks, Ambassador Tao underscored the diplomatic importance of the visit, describing it as a reflection of the strong and valued relationship shared by both countries.
“St. Kitts and Nevis is one of Taiwan’s most cherished diplomatic allies,” Ambassador Tao said. “Our friendship is built on respect, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to progress in national development. The presence of this squadron underscores the depths of our engagement.”
He further noted that the squadron’s journey of over 9,000 nautical miles highlights Taiwan’s continued commitment to strengthening ties with the Federation.
“We want to show the people of St. Kitts and Nevis that although our two island nations are thousands of miles apart, you are always on our mind,” he said. “So it is my sincere hope that this goodwill mission will open new venues of cooperation in national security and maritime safety that will benefit both Taiwan and your esteemed Federation.”
Prime Minister the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew described the occasion as both historic and deeply meaningful, emphasizing its symbolic importance in reaffirming longstanding relations.
“The arrival of the Taiwan Navy to our shores, its first visit in 23 years, is a moment of real significance. Historic in every sense. It speaks to the enduring strength of the bond between our two nations and serves as a symbol of the closeness we continue to enjoy, even across great distances,” Dr. Drew stated.
He also highlighted Taiwan’s longstanding contributions to national development in St. Kitts and Nevis, noting that the partnership spans more than four decades and includes collaboration in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, climate resilience, and technology.
“But beyond projects and programmes, what has always made this relationship special is its human dimension,” the prime minister said. “It is a friendship between people, a friendship that values dignity, opportunity, and shared prosperity with democracy at its foundation. That is why this visit matters so deeply.”
As part of the visit, members of the public were invited aboard the vessel to tour its facilities, interact with midshipmen, and gain firsthand insight into Taiwan’s maritime training programmes. The visit also featured a dynamic military showcase in Basseterre, including performances by the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force Band, a Taiwan Navy drum display, an Honour Guard presentation, and a martial arts demonstration, offering a cultural and educational experience for residents and visitors alike.
Source: SKNIS
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