Overview:
Taiwan’s Fleet of Friendship wrapped up its 19th goodwill visit to Palau June 1–4, 2026, bringing naval demonstrations, a public ship tour and a basketball match with local students. Vice President Raynold B. Oilouch represented the Government of Palau at the welcoming and farewell ceremonies, reaffirming the two nations’ enduring partnership in maritime security and cultural exchange.
KOROR, Palau — The Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy’s Fleet of Friendship completed a four-day goodwill visit to Palau from June 1–4, 2026, its 19th such visit to the island nation.
The fleet, comprising the fast combat support ship Pan-Shi and frigates Yueh-Fei and Di-Hua, was commanded by Chen Ming-Feng. The vessels were welcomed by Palauan officials, residents and members of the local Taiwanese community upon arrival.
Photo credit: Republic of China-Taiwan Embassy in Palau. June 2026
Vice President and Minister of Health Raynold B. Oilouch represented the Government of Palau at the official welcoming ceremony June 2, joined by traditional leader Reklai Raphael B. Ngirmang, Sen. Mason Whipps and Delegate Francesca Otong.
Oilouch said the fleet’s annual visit continues to strengthen bilateral cooperation in maritime security and cultural exchange, reflecting the enduring ties between Palau and Taiwan. Taiwan’s Ambassador Chen echoed those remarks, describing the visit as both a milestone in the fleet’s overseas training mission and a symbol of the two nations’ longstanding partnership.
Following the ceremony, Cmdr. Chen led the delegation in a courtesy call on the vice president.
At Asahi Stadium, the fleet showcased its Navy Marching Band, honor guard drills and Marine Corps martial arts demonstrations before an audience that included Minister of State Gustav Aitaro and Palauan students, who responded enthusiastically to the performances.
Frigate Di-Hua was opened for public tours during the visit. A basketball match between students from Palau High School and fleet members also served to promote people-to-people goodwill and sports exchanges.
On June 4, Vice President Oilouch took part in a joint flag-raising ceremony to bid farewell to the fleet before it departed for Taiwan.
