Today (6^th), the President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, H.E. Dr. Hilda C. Heine, led a delegation on a state visit to the Taiwan Indigenous Cultural Park. This is the first time in nearly 40 years that the park received the President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands on a visit, which has profound historical and cultural significance. Chairperson of the Council of Indigenous Peoples Zeng Zhi-yong (Ljaucu Zingrur) received the president and the 20-member delegation in person. He stated that the visit is not only an important diplomatic exchange, but signifies the deep connection between the Austronesian peoples established through culture exchange.

President Heini and the delegation had a cultural experience tour of the park. They visited the traditional Paiwan Balhiu (stone slab house) and experienced the firing craft of glass bead making. They also watched the wonderful performance of the NaLuWan Dance Troupe, which is the one and only national-level indigenous peoples' music and dance performance troupe in Taiwan. The president then visited the park's permanent "nutjaivililj" exhibition, demonstrating her deep appreciation of the culture of Taiwan's indigenous people.

The Council of Indigenous Peoples stated that the NaLuWan Dance Troupe especially chose the Atayal dance and music for performance to welcome the delegation and received an enthusiastic response. The troupe was established 35 years ago, and has remained committed to the performance of indigenous peoples' culture, representing Taiwan on overseas visits and exchanges many times; the troupe has a strong influence for Taiwan to develop cultural diplomacy around the globe. The Council of Indigenous Peoples also held a banquet, serving indigenous peoples' cuisine for lunch. The guests were able to enjoy the food while learning more about the unique food culture of Taiwan's indigenous peoples. The two parties had an in-depth exchange during the banquet, discussing issues including culture revitalization and preservation of indigenous peoples, music and dance exchanges, and cooperation between museums. Meanwhile, both parties emphasized the in-depth cooperation between the Republic of the Marshall Islands and Taiwan – the Austronesian peoples. They'll also continue to promote mutual understanding and friendship.

President Heine's visit was facilitated with the assistance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which not only shows that Taiwan values the importance of the relationship with Austronesian Region partners, but it also proves the deep linguistic and cultural connections between Taiwan and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. The Council of Indigenous Peoples looks forward to continuing to promote dialogue and cooperation between Austronesian cultures in addition to introducing the indigenous peoples' cultures of Taiwan to the globe and walking side-by-side with the countries all over the world.