Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy embarked on his first visit to Taiwan on March 20, 2025, aimed at strengthening economic ties and exploring opportunities for energy collaboration. This three-day trip marks a significant diplomatic engagement as Dunleavy meets with various high-level officials, including President Lai Ching-te, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, and Premier Cho Jung-tai.
Upon his arrival, Governor Dunleavy wasted no time and immediately engaged in discussions with Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung. The main agenda of the meetings centers around enhancing bilateral trade and discussing cooperative efforts in the energy sector, a crucial aspect given Taiwan's energy needs.
During this visit, Dunleavy's delegation plans to meet not only with top government officials but also with representatives from Taiwanese businesses, indicating a robust interest in fostering economic partnerships. Additionally, the governor is scheduled to attend a banquet hosted by Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi.
One notable aspect of this visit is the long-standing sister-state relationship between Alaska and Taiwan, which has been in place since 1988. This partnership has primarily focused on economic ties across various sectors, including energy, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and mining. Currently, Taiwan holds the position as Alaska's fourth largest market in Asia, demonstrating the significance of this relationship.
In a timely development coinciding with Dunleavy's visit, the Taiwanese state energy firm CPC Corporation formally signed an agreement with the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation (AGDC) to purchase liquefied natural gas (LNG) and invest in an accompanying project. This agreement is pivotal, as President Lai noted, "Natural gas from Alaska can meet our need and ensure our energy security." This statement underscores the essential role that stable LNG supplies play in Taiwan's energy strategy.
The CPC's involvement in the project aims to secure up to $44 billion in investment, aimed at developing a 1,300-km (800-mile) pipeline to transport natural gas south from Alaska’s remote north. The project aims not only to provide energy security for Taiwan but also enables the natural gas to be shipped to markets in Japan and South Korea, thereby bypassing the Panama Canal. This diversification of energy sources could lead to more stable pricing for Taiwan's energy supply.
At a dinner reception that took place during the visit, Lai mentioned the strategic significance of sourcing long-term natural gas from Alaska. "By securing long-term natural gas supplies from Alaska, Taiwan could further diversify its LNG sources, ensuring stable energy prices and consistent supply from a friendly neighbor for many decades to come," Governor Dunleavy added, emphasizing the durable nature of this collaboration.
This partnership comes amidst heightened geopolitical tensions in the region. Taiwan has continued to strengthen its military cooperation with the United States, particularly in elements such as intelligence sharing and joint exercises, as it counters growing pressure from China, which claims sovereignty over Taiwan. The U.S. remains Taiwan's most significant ally, providing not only diplomatic support but also military backing, which adds depth to discussions during Dunleavy’s visit.
Overall, Governor Dunleavy’s visit symbolizes a deepening of ties between Alaska and Taiwan, with both parties looking to bolster economic relationships that might lead to mutually beneficial developments in energy. Through these strategic discussions and agreements, both Alaska and Taiwan are navigating a path towards enhanced cooperation while addressing broader energy security challenges.
The visit highlights the importance of such international relations as both regions work to adapt and respond to the dynamic global energy market and geopolitical landscape.
