Taiwan’s Dunmu Goodwill Fleet arrived in Tuvalu on Friday. This is the first time in 12 years that the fleet has visited this Pacific island nation. The fleet sailed over 7,000 kilometers to reach Tuvalu. The trip began in late March as part of a long training voyage. The mission aims to build stronger ties with Taiwan’s friends and give new navy sailors and officers important training.
The fleet has three ships. These are the Cheng Ho, a Cheng Kung-class frigate; the Wu Chang, a Kang Ding-class frigate; and the Pan Shi, a Pan Shi-class fast combat support ship. The ships are on a goodwill tour. They visit countries that are friends with Taiwan. Over 800 navy members and cadets get real-sea training on this trip.
This voyage is about more than just training. It is also a diplomatic mission. Taiwan’s navy wants to show support and keep good relations with countries like Tuvalu. The visit comes as Taiwan works to build partnerships worldwide. Many people are watching the Pacific region closely now.
When the fleet arrived, Tuvalu’s officials and citizens gave a warm welcome. A Navy Honor Guard and Naval Academy cadets put on ceremonies. The Marine Corps martial arts team showed their skills in a public demo. These events were open for everyone. They showed Taiwan’s friendly approach.
The Pan Shi support ship was open for tours during the visit. Local people and officials could see the ship and learn about Taiwan’s navy power.
Taiwan’s Ambassador to Tuvalu, Lin Tong-heng, came with Rear Admiral Liu Tai-jui, the fleet’s commander. They gave gifts to Tuvalu from the Taiwanese government. These gifts included 33 ceremonial rifles and 50 volleyballs. These items stand for friendship and working together.
A friendly volleyball game also took place. Naval Academy cadets played against Tuvaluan police officers. This match was a fun way to build goodwill and share culture.
The fleet’s visit to Tuvalu is a big moment. It shows Taiwan’s promise to keep close ties with its friends. Tuvalu is one of the few countries that officially recognize Taiwan. Visits like this help make those bonds stronger.
The long trip tests Taiwan’s navy. It helps new sailors and officers gain skills in sailing, teamwork, and dealing with other countries. The mission also shows Taiwan’s navy strength and its ability to work far from home.
This trip is one of many goodwill visits to Taiwan’s friends in the Pacific and beyond. Taiwan faces challenges because China claims it as part of its land. These visits help Taiwan show it is a real country and plays a part in the world.
Taiwan’s navy plans more visits in the future. They want to build even closer ties and work better with friendly nations. After leaving Tuvalu, the fleet will go to other allied countries. These stops show Taiwan’s active role in keeping peace at sea and in diplomacy.
To sum up, the Dunmu Goodwill Fleet’s arrival in Tuvalu is a key event after 12 years. The mission mixes naval training with friendly visits. The warm welcome, shows, gifts, and sports all show strong friendship between Taiwan and Tuvalu.
With more than 800 navy people on board, the trip gives young sailors needed experience. It also shows Taiwan’s promise to support its friends, even with tough global problems.
As the fleet moves on, it makes Taiwan’s presence in the Pacific stronger. It sends a clear sign of friendship and teamwork.
