Taiwan's president visits Pacific islands

The president of Taiwan, Chen Shui-bian, is visiting Palau on the first leg of a tour of Pacific island allies.

During the tour Mr Chen will attend an inaugural summit with Taiwan's six diplomatic allies in the region.

The president will stay in Palau for three days before flying to Nauru, on September 5 for a day-long visit.

President Chen had to change to a commercial aircraft at a stop in Guam because the United States, which recognises Beijing instead of Taipei, is unhappy about him using the presidential jet which carries Taiwan's national emblem.

Under its "One China" principle, China insists Taiwan is part of its territory awaiting reunification.

However, about 25 countries maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan, over China.

The two countries are locked in a continuing battle to woo allies away from each other with aid packages and assistance in economic, agricultural and educational development.

The two sides split in 1949 at the end of a civil war.

- RADIO AUSTRALIA