Taiwanese leader kicks off Marshall Islands visit as China fumes

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te arrived in the Marshall Islands on Dec 3, after visiting the US on the first stop of a Pacific tour that has angered Chinese leaders.

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The Marshall Islands is one of 12 remaining nations that recognize Taiwan's claim to statehood, after others jumped ship to China following promises of aid and investment.

China, which views Taiwan as its own territory and opposes any foreign interactions or visits by its leaders, has been stepping up military pressure against the island, including two rounds of war games in 2024.

Arriving in the Marshall Islands capital of Majuro, Mr Lai referred to Taiwan's indigenous inhabitants as sharing a culture with the Pacific Islands' first settlers.

"Taiwan and the Marshall Islands share a traditional Austronesia culture, as well as the values of freedom and democracy," he said in live-streamed remarks as he met President Hilda Heine.

"We are like family. We are also close partners who support each other," he added.

Austronesian tribes farmed on Taiwan thousands of years before Han settlers from mainland China arrived in the 17th century.

Ms Heine said the Marshall Islands, which has a defense and funding compact with the US and receives significant aid for climate change projects and infrastructure from Taiwan, would deepen ties.

"Your government and people are very close and dear to our hearts," she said.