Support for Haiti on food supplies, healthcare to continue: Lai

Taipei, July 8 (CNA) President Lai Ching-te(賴清德) on Tuesday pledged continued support for Haiti, particularly in food aid and healthcare, as the Caribbean nation faces ongoing challenges to public well-being.

Speaking during a meeting in Taipei with Haitian Foreign Minister Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste, Lai said Taiwan would step up bilateral cooperation to help improve Haiti's social infrastructure.

Taiwan will continue supporting Haiti through initiatives aimed at improving healthcare, food security and overall development, Lai said.

Taiwan and Haiti will mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, the president said, adding that the two countries would continue to support each other and deepen bilateral ties.

Jean-Baptiste, meanwhile, reaffirmed the longstanding ties between Taiwan and Haiti, saying they had contributed to Haiti's development in areas such as agriculture, healthcare, and education.

Taiwan has established itself as a responsible, peaceful and innovative actor committed to global cooperation, the Haitian top diplomat said, adding that looking ahead, he looked forward to building a new chapter in bilateral relations.

Jean-Baptiste is leading a five-member delegation to Taiwan from July 7 to 11, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.