For the first time in 25 years, a North Carolina governor visited Taiwan—marking a renewed commitment to strengthen economic, cultural, and educational ties between the Tar Heel State and the island of Formosa. Governor Josh Stein led a business delegation to Taipei following his participation in the Southeast U.S.–Japan Annual Joint Meeting in Tokyo.

During his visit, Governor Stein met with President Lai Ching-te, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung, and Deputy Economic Minister Cynthia Kiang to discuss expanding cooperation in key sectors such as biotechnology, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence. The meetings reflected both sides’ shared vision of deepening collaboration that benefits innovation, sustainability, and economic growth.

“It is a pleasure to welcome Governor Stein as he leads a delegation to Taiwan during his first year in office,” said President Lai. “Your presence shows that our bilateral relations are rising to new heights. North Carolina’s highly skilled workforce and research infrastructure make it a natural partner for Taiwan in industries where we both excel.”

Governor Stein described his visit as an opportunity to strengthen an already strong partnership. “I am deeply impressed by Taiwan’s incredible energy and spirit of innovation,” he said. “Our two economies share much in common—an appreciation for democracy, free enterprise, and the drive to build a more sustainable future. Together, we can turn those shared values into stronger cultural and economic ties.”

In addition to government meetings, the governor hosted a North Carolina Business Seminar for leading Taiwanese companies, including Everest Textiles, Anderson Group, and Delta Electronics, which operates its regional R&D headquarters in the Research Triangle Park (RTP). Business discussions centered on expanding investment in North Carolina and fostering collaboration in research and technology.

The visit also highlighted the long-standing sister-state relationship between Taiwan and North Carolina, which has now spanned over four decades. In 2023, North Carolina opened its ninth international office in Taiwan, using Taipei as a hub to connect with other Asian markets. President Lai praised the state’s proactive approach, noting that it has made bilateral relations “all the more dynamic.”

Beyond trade and technology, cultural and educational ties were also recognized. President Lai thanked the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction for approving the inclusion of Taiwan’s Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language (TOCFL) in the state’s Seal of Biliteracy framework—a move that gives North Carolina students official recognition for Mandarin proficiency through a Taiwan-based standard.

Governor Stein expressed his gratitude to Taiwan for its humanitarian aid following a major storm in North Carolina last year, calling it “a testament to the friendship and solidarity between our peoples.”

As the visit concluded, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to a future built on shared innovation, open exchange, and mutual respect. With expanding trade ties, educational programs, and cultural connections, the relationship between Taiwan and North Carolina stands as a model of local diplomacy—showing how subnational partnerships can play a meaningful role in global cooperation.

Works Cited:

https://www.commerce.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2025/10/31/governor-stein-secretary-lilley-edpnc-promote-north-carolina-top-state-investment-and-partnership

https://english.president.gov.tw/News/7033

https://taiwantoday.tw/Politics/Top-News/277113/President-Lai-receives-U.S.-North-Carolina-governor