Taiwan's Bold Move: Inviting Diplomatic Allies' Youth to Explore and Dream

A New Initiative for Cultural Exchange and Global Connection

Taipei, April 22 - In a move to strengthen diplomatic ties and foster cross-cultural understanding, the Taiwanese government is launching a program to welcome youth from its diplomatic allies. This initiative, a two-way expansion of the existing "Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative," is set to begin in July.

The original "Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative," introduced in early 2025, focused on providing opportunities for Taiwanese nationals aged 15 to 30 to travel abroad. The new program extends this concept, inviting young people from Taiwan's 12 diplomatic allies to experience the nation firsthand.

Eric Lin (林世欣), deputy head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' (MOFA) Department of Policy Planning, announced the initiative during a MOFA weekly briefing. He explained that the program will be implemented in collaboration with TaiwanICDF, a government-funded foreign aid agency.

The program encompasses two main components. The first involves a two-week visit, themed around "Sustainable Tourism" and "Smart Agriculture," designed to immerse participants in Taiwan's culture and advancements. This part of the program will begin in July, with two batches of participants and a total of 50 vacancies, according to Lin.

The second component allows up to 25 youths from diplomatic allies to propose a dream they wish to pursue while in Taiwan. If approved, their stay will be extended to two weeks up to three months, starting in September. MOFA will cover all travel and accommodation expenses for these participants.

MOFA is actively promoting the initiative through its embassies in the 12 allied nations. The ministry also plans to allocate vacancies specifically for youths from underprivileged families, ensuring broader access to this unique opportunity, added Lin.