Speaking at a press briefing promoting business and tourism in the American island state, Lingle praised its long relationship with Taiwan, but noted a recent decline in the number of camera-wielding Taiwanese heading to "The Islands of Aloha."

Yet she expressed hope of seeing Taiwan included in the U.S.' visa waiver program in future, pending a decision of the federal government.

South Korea and several other countries have been recently added to the list of countries whose citizens no longer require visas to enter the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days.

At present, Taiwan-based China Airlines provides two direct flights per week between Taipei and Hawaii and a further five with stopovers in Tokyo. Two other carriers also ply the route.

Lingle is scheduled to meet with President Ma Ying-jeou today to discuss enhancing relations between Hawaii and Taiwan, especially in the area of renewable energy development and technology.