Taiwan Ambassador Steve CC Hsia donated $40,000 to the government of the Marshall Islands last week for aid to Arno and Ailinglaplap atolls that were hit by strong waves last month.
Hsia said the contribution is to be divided equally between the two atolls to provide emergency humanitarian assistance to the two atolls affected by big waves.
The donation was received by the Minister of Finance David Paul.
The event was attended by Vice-Speaker of Nitijela Issac Zackhras and Nitijela Member Bruce Loeak who both represent Ailinglaplap Atoll, and Arno Nitijela Member Gerald Zackios as well as mayors from both atolls.
“Taiwan, empathizing with the challenges faced by the Marshall Islands, took immediate action to allocate humanitarian assistance funds upon learning about the devastating impact through Vice Speaker Zackhras’ request for help and media reports,” said the ambassador. “Our assistance may not be enough to cover all reconstruction efforts, but hope to help bring back the smiles on the affected families of the two atolls.”
Loeak and Zackios expressed gratitude on behalf of the affected residents, underscoring Taiwan’s genuine friendship and timely support during this challenging period.
The Marshall Islands entered the king tide season in January, resulting in significant infrastructure damage and homes being impacted by large waves. Farmlands, roads, and airport runways also experienced inundation of seawater. Notably, Arno and Ailinglaplap Atolls emerged as two of the severely affected areas.