Taiwan steps up diplomatic push in Latin America, Caribbean

MOFA sets NT$5.3 billion budget to boost Taiwan’s presence in region

 Sep. 7, 2025 15:33

Kelvin Chen
Taiwan News, Staff Writer

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has allocated NT$5.3 billion (US$174.15 million) for its Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs to strengthen diplomatic relations and forge new ties with regional countries.

MOFA plans to use part of the budget to support allies’ economic development and industrial transformation through the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, launched by Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍 last May. Funding will also cover cooperation projects with non-diplomatic partners, CNA reported.

The budget includes costs to host visiting delegations. MOFA expects to welcome 330 visitors from Latin America next year, according to CNA. A diplomatic source said the high number is aimed at countering China’s ongoing efforts to poach Taiwan’s allies and restrict its space in non-diplomatic countries.

Taiwan has also earmarked NT$53.84 million to organize activities in Latin America and the Caribbean with local governments, think tanks, universities, media, and NGOs, in a bid to enhance Taiwan’s international presence.

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https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/news/6195405