Taiwan donates US$3 million to aid St. Vincent's social relief programs

Taipei, Feb. 4 (CNA) The Taiwanese government on Tuesday donated US$3 million to the government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) to support its social relief programs, Taiwan's embassy to the Caribbean ally said Wednesday.

The donation was made by Ambassador Fiona Fan (范惠君) to SVG Prime Minister Godwin Friday during a ceremony held on Tuesday, the embassy said in a social media post.

Friday expressed his gratitude on behalf of his government and people for Taiwan's support, noting that the grant represents a vital "investment in people" of the Caribbean nation.

The funds will address community needs and help strengthen social institutions across the country, he was quoted as saying.

Neither side, however, provided details on how the funds would be utilized.

The prime minister also reaffirmed his government's intention to deepen cooperation with Taiwan, particularly in developing the SVG's "blue economy," which refers to ocean-based economic activities, by drawing on Taiwan's expertise in the fishing and agricultural sectors.

Friday assumed office in late November 2025 after his New Democratic Party (NDP) won the general election, ending the Unity Labour Party's 24-year rule.

The NDP has previously proposed switching recognition from Taipei to Beijing, although Friday did not publicly address the issue during his campaign.

Since taking office, Friday has said that Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will maintain diplomatic relations with the Republic of China, which were established in 1981.