Taiwan Today

A segment of the Berlin Wall went on display at the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy in Taipei Nov. 9, marking the 20th anniversary of the iconic Cold War structure’s collapse. "Both the fall of the Berlin Wall and Taiwan’s democratization represent the universal value of democracy, freedom and human rights," said Wang Jin-pyng, Legislative Yuan president, during the unveiling ceremony. Wang, who doubles as foundation chairman, dismissed talk of the wall’s presence symbolizing Taiwan’s possible unification with mainland China as “unrealistic.” "The wall in the Taiwan Strait was effectively torn down 20 years ago following the lifting of martial law," Wang said. “Both sides of the strait need to continue working to prevent military conflict and secure everlasting peace.” Standing 3.5-meters high and 1.2-meters wide, the L-shaped segment was presented by Oberhavel County in Germany on the advice of Chen Chin-huang, former president of The Memorial Foundation of 228. Current 228 foundation President Chan Chi-shean officially handed the piece over during yesterday’s ceremony. Positioned in front of the segment is a sculpture by renowned Taiwanese artist Ju Ming from his famous Taichi Series, which embodies his concern for the spiritual aspect of life. “The Berlin Wall and Ju’s sculpture represent democracy and human rights meeting consummation and harmony,” Wang said, adding that the segment would be shifted from its garden location once work on the foundation’s new annex is complete. (PCT-JSM)