Taipei - President Alvaro Colom of Guatemala, one of the 23 countries which recognize Taiwan, will visit Taipei next month as the island is trying to cement ties with its allies, the foreign ministry said Friday.

Colom will visit Taiwan October 7-11 to attend Taiwan's October 10 National Day celebrations. He will hold talks with President Ma Ying-jeou on strengthening ties and receive an honorary degree from the Chinese Culture University, the ministry said in a statement.

Colom will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Roger Haroldo Rodas and other Guatemalan officials and reporters. (dpa)