Basseterre, Saint Kitts, April 10, 2026 (SKNIS): Saint Kitts and Nevis today, April 10, 2026, officially welcomed the historic goodwill visit from the Taiwan Navy, marking the squadron’s first arrival to the Federation in 23 years, and reaffirming the deep and enduring ties between the two nations.
The mission, which brought more than 700 officers, crew members, and cadets, forms a key component of Taiwan’s overseas training programme for senior midshipmen ahead of their graduation and commissioning. This visit represents the third time Taiwan’s naval squadron has called on Saint Kitts and Nevis, following previous visits in 2002 and 2003.
A formal welcome ceremony was held at Port Zante, attended by senior government 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 highlighted the diplomatic significance of the mission, noting that the visit reflects the deep and valued relationship between the two countries.
“Saint 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.”
The ambassador emphasised that the squadron’s journey of over 9,000 nautical miles further demonstrates Taiwan’s commitment to strengthening these ties with Saint Kitts and Nevis.
“We want to show the people of Saint 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 visit as a historic and meaningful moment for the Federation, emphasising that it serves as a powerful symbol of a friendship and a longstanding commitment to national development.
“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.
Prime Minister Drew noted that Taiwan has been a steadfast partner to Saint Kitts and Nevis for more than four decades, collaborating across key sectors including 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.”
During the visit, citizens and residents were invited aboard the vessel to tour its facilities, engage with midshipmen, and gain insight into Taiwan’s maritime training and development. The public also enjoyed a vibrant military showcase in Basseterre, featuring performances by the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force Band, a Taiwan Navy drum display, an Honour Guard presentation, and a martial arts demonstration.
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