Taiwan president

First Pacific regional visit by Taiwan president

Taiwan's foreign ministry announced the president's first visit to the region on Friday.

Taiwan's deputy foreign affairs minister, Francois Wu, said it was hoped the visit would show the importance placed on Taiwan's friendships with the countries.

Six Pacific island countries recognise Taiwan's independence from China and are among 20 nations worldwide who favour links with Taipei over Beijing.

The Pacific visit comes after Panama switched its allegiance to from Taiwan to China in June.