Taiwan and Palau are set to jointly host the Pacific ally’s Belau Omal Marathon scheduled for June 4, underscoring the countries’ shared commitment to revitalizing post-pandemic tourism and fast-tracking economic recovery, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Feb. 23.
During a news conference staged at the MOFA, Deputy Foreign Minister Roy Chun Lee shared that “omal” is the Palauan word for “challenging and unique,” adding that the choice symbolizes the island nation’s determination to reinvigorate its travel sector.
Other high-profile attendees at the event included Palau Vice President J. Uduch Sengebau Senior, Palau Ambassador to the ROC (Taiwan) David Adams Orrukem, and Taiwan athletes Lu Yen-hsun, Huang Pei-hung and Tsao Chun-yang.
According to Lee, Taiwan-Palau ties are going strength from strength. This is evidenced by Vice President Lai Ching-te’s recent official visit to the Pacific ally, strengthening bilateral cooperation across a broad spectrum of areas, he said.
Echoing Lee’s remarks, Sengebau expressed gratitude on behalf of Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. for Taiwan’s assistance in organizing the marathon. She welcomed runners from Taiwan and all over the world to attend the upcoming race, inviting them to enjoy the country’s breathtaking views of the lush valleys and clear blue ocean along the route. (DL-E)
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