Taiwan Bolsters Haiti’s Security Forces Amid Gang Crisis

Taiwan's embassy in Haiti provided protective equipment to Haiti's national police and army to aid their fight against powerful gangs. The donation consists of 800 kits over two years and highlights the enduring friendship between the nations. Haiti, a rare diplomatic ally of Taiwan, also has ties with China.

Taiwan's embassy in Haiti on Thursday presented Haiti's national police and army with protective equipment such as helmets, tactical kneepads, eye protectors, and bulletproof vests to support their battle against influential gangs.

The Haitian prime minister's office reported that 400 individual kits were delivered, bringing the total to 800 kits from Taiwan within two years. Prime Minister Garry Conille stated that the donation not only represents material support but also signifies a sincere and lasting friendship between Haiti and Taiwan.

The Caribbean nation remains one of Taiwan's few remaining diplomatic allies while also maintaining a trade office in Beijing. China claims Taiwan as its territory, a claim at odds with the U.S., which supports Taiwan through arms sales and has stated willingness to defend the island. Meanwhile, Haiti grapples with an internal crisis, with displacements and scarcity of resources aggravate the situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)