Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre embarked on a mission last week to source much needed support for a number of areas locally as well as to strengthen relations with the Republic of China (Taiwan). The prime minister left St. Lucia last week with a delegation comprising Ms. Marie Felix; Attorney General Leslie Mondesir; Senator Alison Jean; and Daryl Raymond, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saint Lucia Development Bank (SLDB).
Housing, food security, and opportunities for young people were among the topics discussed as Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre began his official visit to the Republic of China (Taiwan) on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.
Taiwan’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Lin Chia-lung, hosted a welcome luncheon for the Saint Lucia delegation. The luncheon provided an opportunity to discuss the longstanding relationship between Saint Lucia and Taiwan and areas where both countries can continue working together. Prime Minister Pierre acknowledged the members of the Saint Lucia delegation and recognised Taiwan’s Ambassador to Saint Lucia, Her Excellency Nicole Su, for her contribution to relations between the two countries.
The Foreign Minister reflected on the contribution of Taiwan-supported projects to the lives of Saint Lucians and expressed appreciation for Saint Lucia’s support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations. Both sides spoke of their interest in building on the achievements of the partnership and pursuing sustainable development and prosperity.
Prime Minister Pierre expressed appreciation for the US$20 million loan secured through Taiwan’s Export-Import Bank to support housing development in Saint Lucia. He also spoke of the need to increase local food production, expand export opportunities and equip Saint Lucians with the skills to contribute to national development.
The Prime Minister highlighted the Youth Economy initiative and expressed hope that more young people from Saint Lucia and Taiwan would have opportunities to exchange knowledge, skills and experiences. He also expressed interest in exploring the establishment of a facility dedicated to Kwéyòl arts and culture.
Prime Minister Pierre expressed appreciation for the opportunities afforded to Saint Lucian students pursuing higher education in Taiwan. At Saint Lucia’s Embassy, Ambassador Dr. Robert Lewis reported that more than 200 Saint Lucian students have pursued studies in Taiwan. The Prime Minister thanked the Ambassador for his service and his contribution to relations between the two countries.
The first day’s programme also included visits to the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park and Oringo Taipei Songshan, where the Prime Minister observed how locally crafted and recycled materials are used to create products for sale. He noted the potential for young Saint Lucian entrepreneurs to apply similar ideas.
The visit also provides an opportunity to consider prospects for cooperation in tourism, trade, education and the creative industries.