TAIPEI, Taiwan (CMC) — Haitian President Jovenel Moise began an official visit to Taiwan on Tuesday overshadowed by efforts by China to get countries to ditch Taipei in favour of restoring diplomatic relations with Beijing.

“We appreciate Haiti’s long-term support of Taiwan and our international participation in many areas,” Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen said at a welcoming ceremony outside the presidential office.

“We look forward to both sides continuing and deepening the mutual help and cooperative partnership, as the two countries’ friendship remains secure forever,” she added.

Haiti is among a handful of Caribbean countries that continue to have diplomatic relationship with Taiwan, which China regards as a renegade province.

Haiti and Taiwan have established diplomatic relations since 1956 and the Taiwanese President said that even though her country and the French-speaking Caribbean country “are separated by large geographic distance, both share democratic and freedom values.

“In many areas, both sides have seen the results of the long-term and deep partnership,” she added.

Tsai says she wants to maintain the status quo but will not be bullied by China and will defend Taiwan and its democracy.

For his part, Moise said that his country was grateful for Taiwan’s willingness to help with its development, and it was looking forward to relations expanding into a new phase.

He said Haiti is looking to promote employment and economic growth, with a focus on strengthening private investment, agriculture modernisation, as well as infrastructure.

“All these plans are currently facing very difficult challenges. We are looking forward to a mutual win,” said Moise, who is accompanied on the visit by a 30-member delegation.

Earlier this month, the Dominican Republic, which shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, became the latest Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM) country to sever ties with Taipei.