Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te arrived in the Marshall Islands on Tuesday, after visiting the United States on the first stop of a Pacific tour that has angered Chinese leaders.

The Marshall Islands is one of 12 remaining nations that recognise Taiwan's claim to statehood after others jumped ship to China following promises of aid and investment.

China insists self-ruled Taiwan is part of its territory and opposes any official exchanges with the island.

Beijing has sought to push Taipei off the international stage by poaching its allies and blocking it from global forums, including the United Nations.

Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine extended Lai a "very warm welcome" after his arrival in the capital Majuro, where the Taiwanese leader will hold talks with the government and attend a banquet.

"Taiwan and the Marshall Islands share a traditional Austronesian culture as well as the values of freedom and democracy," Lai told Heine, speaking through an interpreter.

Lai's first overseas trip since taking office in May began with a two-day visit to the United States........

© International Business Times