In a significant move aimed at enhancing bilateral tourism and business ties, Taiwan is actively exploring the possibility of implementing visa-on-arrival (VoA) for Indian citizens. This potential development was disclosed by Taiwan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang during discussions in Taipei.
Acknowledging India’s robust outbound travel market, Tien Chung-kwang emphasized the need for internal consultations with Taiwan’s Immigration Department before formalizing any decision. He highlighted that such policy changes require collaborative efforts and cannot be unilaterally enacted by the government.
“We are considering visa-on-arrival for Indian citizens and are in discussions with the Immigration Department. This decision involves internal deliberations,” Tien Chung-kwang stated, showing Taiwan’s proactive stance towards facilitating tourism and business exchanges with India.
The initiative reflects Taiwan’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations under its ‘New Southbound Policy’, which prioritizes strengthening economic and cultural ties with countries in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania. This policy framework has also seen Taiwan and India signing agreements, including a migration pact allowing Indian workers to find employment in Taiwanese industries.
This move comes amidst geopolitical tensions, with Taiwan recently asserting its sovereignty following objections from China over interactions between Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Taiwan’s Deputy Foreign Minister dismissed China’s objections, asserting the importance of maintaining diplomatic engagements irrespective of external pressures.
The India-Taiwan economic partnership has flourished in recent years, marked by increased cooperation across various sectors. As discussions progress regarding visa facilitation, both countries anticipate further strengthening their people-to-people exchanges, bolstered by mutual economic interests and cultural affinities.
