The 2025 Taiwan Lantern Festival in the northern city of Taoyuan includes contributions from the country’s allies and like-minded partners, according to the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
President Lai Ching-te opened the event Feb. 12 and said that this year’s theme showcases the country’s soft power through a combination of its strengths in baseball and technology. He added that the venue’s design brought participants back to Team Taiwan’s thrilling win at the World Baseball and Softball Confederation Premier12 last November, while artificial intelligence technology contributed to the event’s sustainability to align with global trends.
Belize and St. Kitts and Nevis were among the participants that kicked off their lantern installations on the first day of the event. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung was invited to attend the allies’ launch ceremonies.
Lin first thanked Ambassador Candice Pitts of Belize for her tireless work to enhance city-to-city exchanges. The minister recalled his fourth visit to the Central American ally last October and added that he looked forward to further bilateral cooperation across the board.
In response, Pitts reaffirmed the long-standing official ties between Taiwan and Belize. She invited the people of Taiwan to visit her country and recommended marine tourism spots like the Great Blue Hole.
The minister said at the opening celebration for St. Kitts and Nevis’ display that the Caribbean ally is a staunch supporter of Taiwan. The countries have enjoyed close cooperation in areas spanning agriculture, education, medical care and women’s empowerment, he said, following the praise with encouragement to his fellow citizens to visit the ally to appreciate its culture, music and scenic landscapes.
Donya Francis, ambassador from St. Kitts and Nevis to the ROC (Taiwan), praised the festival and expressed hope that lanterns from Taiwan might be displayed in St. Kitts and Nevis in the future.
Running until Feb. 23, the 2025 Taiwan Lantern Festival features over 300 artworks across 11 sections. (YCH-E)
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