Minister of the Council of Indigenous Peoples Icyang Parod met with the Marshall Islands’ Minister of Culture and Internal Affairs Ota Jacob Kisino and his delegation Sept. 7 in Taipei City, reflecting commitment by both Indo-Pacific allies to expanding cultural exchanges.

According to the CIP, this is the first meeting between heads of the two ministries since the two sides concluded an agreement to promote Austronesian languages and cultural affairs in January 2019 in Taipei City. It is also the first Taiwan visit by Kisino since taking office in June this year.

In his welcoming remarks, Icyang said Austronesian languages are believed to have originated in Taiwan, citing research by local linguist Li Jen-kuei, late U.S. linguist Robert Blust and Australian archaeologist Peter Bellwood.

With support from President Tsai Ing-wen and the Executive Yuan, the Austronesian Forum was reinstated in August 2018 in Taipei City, with former Marshall Islands President Hilda C. Heine attending the event in person to show her support, he added.

The minister wished the delegates a gratifying stay in Taiwan, hoping the visit will further expand their understanding of the country’s vibrant indigenous culture.

The CIP said during the following 10 days, the delegation is expected to visit Taiwan’s tribal villages in the eastern, southeastern and southern counties of Hualien, Taitung and Pingtung, respectively.

Another highlight of the itinerary is their participation in the ritual celebrations and sports competition of the Bunun people’s annual malahodaigian, or Ear Shooting Festival, Sept. 15-16 in Kaohsiung City, southern Taiwan.

Source: Taiwan.gov.tw