23 Sep 2004

Taiawan President plans first Pacific visit

1:21 pm on 23 September 2004

Reports say the President of Taiwan will make his first ever visit to Pacific Island countries.

The Central News Agency reports President Chen Shui-bian plans to visit Taiwan's diplomatic allies in the region early next year.

Taiwan has formal diplomatic relations with Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Palau and Tuvalu.

Diplomatic sources say Taiwanese officials have been travelling around the region to inspect airport facilities to prepare for any visit.

The sources say the trip would be likely to take place after the Chinese New Year.