MOFA thanks allies, partners for strong backing of Taiwan’s WHA bid
Staunch support from allies and sympathetic partners for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly, the decision-making body of the World Health Organization, is sincerely appreciated by the government and people, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said May 31. Over 10,000 lawmakers, political figures and friends from around 100 governments, law-making bodies and international organizations voiced support for Taiwan’s WHA bid, the ministry said. Twelve of the country’s allies called on the WHO to invite Taiwan to attend the WHA as an observer during the 76th edition of the annual meeting, the MOFA said. Similar sentiments were expressed by representatives from like-minded partners including Australia, Canada, Czechia, Estonia, France, Germany, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, New Zealand, the U.K. and the U.S., the ministry added. The government is committed to working with the global community to create a safer international health network, the MOFA said, calling on the WHO to allow the country to take part in its meetings, mechanisms and activities in order to fulfill its mandate of Health for All.
CAPRI delegation received by President Tsai
President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) welcomed a delegation from the Center for Asia-Pacific Resilience and Innovation led by Australia’s former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull May 30 at the Presidential Office in Taipei City, pledging to work with the think tank to advance regional development and prosperity. According to Tsai, the establishment of CAPRI in Taipei has provided a timely boost for Taiwan as the nongovernmental organization builds a global network to help deepen the country’s connections with the world, the president said, adding that it is bringing local perspectives to the international stage through public policy discussion and research sharing, as well as partnerships with prominent research institutes like the U.S.-based Brookings Institution. In response, Turnbull said it is more important than ever that regional and global democracies remain united. Security doesn’t simply rely on a few central powers such as the U.S. and China but is a network that brings together like-minded partners, he added.
Taiwan donates US$5 million to help rebuild in Ukraine
The government of Taiwan is set to donate US$5 million to a project led by Lithuania’s Central Project Management Agency to assist with reconstruction in Ukraine, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said June 1. According to the MOFA, the fund will be used to rebuild a school and kindergarten near the capital city of Kyiv. More than 1,000 children will benefit from the new facilities when the sites reopen in September, the ministry added.
President calls for enhanced Taiwan-EU ties at Europe Day Dinner
President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said May 25 that Taiwan is committed to strengthening its resilience while continuing to work with the EU across the board. The relationship between Taiwan and Europe has continued to grow over the past few years, Tsai said, citing Taiwan’s inclusion in the EU Strategy for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific launched in 2021, as well as the European Chips Act passed by the European Parliament earlier this year. These are complemented by Taiwan’s Central and Eastern Europe Investment Fund established by the Cabinet-level National Development Council last year, which has reinforced collaboration in strategic industries such as biotechnology and electric vehicles, and an initiative launched by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs earlier this year that provides 10 million euros over three years to deepen semiconductor cooperation with Lithuania. Tsai made the remarks while attending the Europe Day Dinner in Taipei City.
Formosa Club statement supporting Taiwan welcomed by MOFA
A Formosa Club release reiterating support for Taiwan is sincerely appreciated by the government and people, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. In the May 24 statement, the cross-parliamentary group reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, called for peaceful resolution of issues in the area and opposed reckless and aggressive behavior attempting to unilaterally change the status quo. Describing Taiwan as an indispensable member of the international community, the coalition of lawmakers stressed its continued support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in global bodies including the International Civil Aviation Organization, U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change, World Health Organization and Interpol. The statement, signed by 34 attendees, was issued after the organization’s inaugural Unity Summit hosted by Michael Gahler, chair of the European Parliament-Taiwan Friendship Group.
MOFA thanks G7 leaders for supporting cross-strait peace, stability
The Group of Seven leaders’ affirmation of the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is sincerely appreciated, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said May 20. A communique issued earlier the same day is the third consecutive show of support from the grouping of industrialized nations comprising Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the U.K. and the U.S. In the communique, G7 leaders said cross-strait peace and stability is indispensable to security and prosperity in the international community, adding that they called for a peaceful resolution of issues in the region. In response, the MOFA said that China has used economic and military means to intimidate Taiwan and neighboring countries over the past years. Such actions pose severe threats to the security of the Taiwan Strait, the Indo-Pacific and the global community, the ministry added.
Taiwan to set up office in northern Italy
Taiwan is set to open an office in Milan, Italy, as part of government efforts to bolster cooperation and exchanges with the European country, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said April 17. According to the MOFA, the two sides are working closely in areas spanning culture, economy, education, technology, tourism and trade. Taipei City-based Taiwan External Trade Development Council has set up a center in Milan to promote domestic products, and Taiwan semiconductor companies including Hsinchu City-headquartered GlobalWafers Co. have established operations in the Italian metropolis and neighboring cities, the ministry added. The new location will provide services to Taiwan tourists and expatriates in eight northern Italian regions, the MOFA said, adding that it will closely work with the Rome-based Taipei Representative Office in Italy to enhance the two countries’ collaboration across the board.
Taiwan, US ink initial 21st century trade initiative pact
The first agreement under the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade was concluded by the two countries June 1 in Washington, spotlighting the governments’ commitment to further cementing their partnership, according to the Presidential Office and the Executive Yuan. Under the accord, Taiwan and the U.S. will expand collaboration in areas such as anti-corruption, customs administration and trade facilitation, good regulatory practices, services domestic regulation, and the development of small- and medium-sized enterprises. According to the PO, President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said the initiative is the most comprehensive trade accord inked between Taiwan and the U.S. since 1979. The signing of the inaugural agreement marks a milestone in the country’s efforts to conclude more deals with its major trading partners, she added. The EY said the pact will create more opportunities for Taiwan’s businesses, especially its smaller enterprises, to engage in international economic activities and will pave the way for the country to participate in regional trade blocs such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Computex Taipei kicks off 4 days of high-tech exhibitions
Computex Taipei, one of the world’s top information and communications technology trade shows, begins May 30 at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center. According to co-organizer Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), the four-day event brings together 1,000 exhibitors from 26 countries and territories to showcase the latest products and solutions. TAITRA Chair James C. F. Huang (黃志芳) said during a news conference held May 29 that this year’s edition spotlights emerging trends in artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, hyperreality, innovations and startups, next-gen connectivity, and sustainability. Huang added that the global event attracts decision makers from around the world.
NSTC Minister Wu receives Research Council of Lithuania Chair Valincius
Minister of National Science and Technology Council Wu Tsung-tsong (吳政忠) received Gintaras Valincius, chair of the Research Council of Lithuania, May 29 in Taipei City, with both pledging to deepen exchanges. During his welcome remarks, Wu said relations between Taiwan and Lithuania have been on the rise in recent years, as evidenced by the visit of a cross-ministry delegation comprising 60- plus members from Taiwan to the EU member state in October 2021. During the visit, the two sides concluded six memorandums of understanding on cooperation in semiconductors, satellites, biotechnology, scientific research and finance, he said. In response, Valincius said he was deeply impressed by Taiwan’s prowess in research and technology seen during his previous trip, adding that he looks forward to concluding more bilateral agreements to expand cooperation.
Taiwan seeks to join CPTPP at APEC meeting
Taiwan stands ready to implement stricter trade and investment standards to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership and thus further contribute to Asia-Pacific prosperity, according to Minister without Portfolio John C.C. Deng (鄧振中). Deng made the remarks at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting chaired by U.S. Trade Rep. Katherine Tai May 25-26 in Detroit. Taiwan has observed high standards in its trade regulations throughout bilateral negotiations with the U.S. and expects to hold discussions on similarly rigorous rules with other countries and territories, Deng said, adding that the country has amended laws in line with the latest World Trade Organization negotiation results, including its Services Domestic Regulation.
Transportation minister shares successes at APEC meeting
Minister of Transportation and Communications Wang Kwo-tsai (王國材) attended the 11th Transportation Ministerial Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum held May 16 in the U.S. city of Detroit. During the event, Wang provided a review of Taiwan’s accomplishments in enhancing supply chain resilience and maintaining air and maritime transportation while ensuring economic growth despite the negative impact of COVID-19. Another highlight of Wang’s APEC trip was his meeting with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg to exchange views on sectors including green maritime transportation, electric vehicle supply chains, unmanned aerial vehicle and railway safety. The two sides pledged to maintain close contact and seek ways to expand related cooperation, the MOTC said.
Taiwan, US, Japan, Australia stage GCTF workshop alongside 76th WHA in Geneva
A workshop promoting pandemic preparedness was staged by Taiwan, the U.S., Japan and Australia May 23 in Geneva on the sidelines of the 76th World Health Assembly, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. During his opening remarks, Minister of Health and Welfare Hsueh Jui-yuan (薛瑞元) said no country was immune to the unprecedented impact of COVID-19. The World Health Organization’s Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats initiative is a salient reminder that the world needs to work together to enhance disease resilience, he added. The global public health network relies on the participation and cooperation of all members of the international community, Hsueh said, adding that the GCTF workshop will help boost collaboration.
Taiwan, Canada ink MOU on health cooperation
Taiwan and Canada concluded a memorandum of understanding on health cooperation May 9, spotlighting their joint commitment to further cementing the bilateral partnership, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Under the pact, the two countries will deepen collaboration on digital health, international health security, psychological care and treatment of noninfectious diseases. Relevant authorities on each side will organize reciprocal visits, hold workshops and seminars and facilitate personnel training. According to the MOFA, the MOU marks the first time Taiwan and Canada have established systematic cooperation in public health. The government will keep strengthening its relationship with Canada while the two sides continue to contribute to the international health community, the ministry added.
President Tsai pledges to advance gender equality in sports
President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said May 5 that Taiwan is committed to promoting gender equality throughout society while cooperating with international friends to further the concept within the sports world. Tsai made the remarks during the Women in Sports International Photo Awards ceremony and a forum on athletic diplomacy at National Taipei University in New Taipei City. Sports have the power to unite people across cultural and geographical divides, Tsai said, adding that she felt confident the event would bring much-needed attention to women in sports and sports photography. Taiwan’s female athletes consistently give outstanding performances at international events and bring the country global recognition, Tsai said, citing those excelling not just in sports like badminton and weightlifting, but also in coaching and refereeing.
Tourism Bureau launches incentives to attract visitors
Taiwan’s Tourism Bureau launched an incentive April 28 offering transit or transfer passengers at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport a free half-day tour in the country as part of a government program to attract more visitors from abroad. Starting May 1, passengers with layovers of seven to 24 hours who have valid ROC (Taiwan) visas or come from countries eligible for visa-exempt entry qualify for the scheme. Also eligible are citizens from Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam who have applied online for a Taiwan travel authorization certificate. According to the TB, passengers can choose guided or self-guided tours. The former option offers three itineraries and transit passengers can join one tour during each stopover, it added.
MOFA lauds Taiwan NGO accomplishments
Taiwan’s nongovernmental organizations raise the country’s global profile in areas spanning culture, environmental protection, human rights, medical care, sports and women’s empowerment, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said April 27. Supported by the MOFA’s Department of NGO International Affairs, domestic NGOs held numerous large-scale global meetings and activities within the country this year, the MOFA said. These included the third edition of the BPW International Asia-Pacific Symposium 2023 held April 21-22 in the northern city of Taoyuan by the International Federation of Business and Professional Women, Taiwan and the 38th World Veterinary Association Congress staged April 26-29 in Taipei City by the Taiwan Veterinary Medical Association, the ministry added. According to the MOFA, more international events are scheduled this year by NGOs like the Garden of Hope Foundation, Judge Association of ROC (Taiwan), Taiwan Alliance in International Development and Taiwan Institute for Sustainable Energy.
Tsai presides over launch of New Taima ferry
President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) presided over the launch ceremony of New Taima, a ferry providing services between Taiwan’s main island and outlying Lienchiang County, April 16 in the northern port city of Keelung, according to the Presidential Office. The ship’s maiden voyage marks an important milestone in strengthening transportation links between Taiwan and the Matsu archipelago, Tsai said, adding that the achievement can be attributed to the hard work of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and Lienchiang County Government. According to Tsai, the service is expected to increase the number of tourists traveling to Matsu to experience its military past and present and augment the local tourism sector. New Taima will also help boost interest in Keelung’s sightseeing activities and the country’s island-hopping trips, she added. The government will continue to implement infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing convenience and quality of life for residents of the outlying county while promoting the archipelago’s attractions for visitors, Tsai said.
National Central Library signs Paris agreement
Taiwan’s National Central Library and France’s Bibliotheque publique d’information du Centre Pompidou concluded an agreement to promote reading and cultural literacy May 31 in Paris. The pact was signed by NCL Director-General Tseng Shu-hsien (曾淑賢) and Director Christine Carrier from the French library. Head of Taipei Representative Office in France Wu Chih-chung (吳志中) coordinated the project. According to Tseng, the bilateral cooperation strengthens the bond between the two facilities to promote reading and cultural literacy, seek opportunity for collaboration, and share resources, laying a solid foundation for partnership between the two entities. The agreement also makes Taiwan culture more accessible for those in France, she added. In appreciation of the cooperation, NCL gifted its French counterpart a replica copy of the Yuan dynasty (1271-1368) Diamond Sutra.
Taiwan artists dazzle crowds at Swiss comics festival
Six artists from Taiwan showcased their work at Lausanne Comic Strip Festival held May 1-14 in Switzerland, increasing international awareness of the country’s vibrant arts and publishing sectors. With the support of the Taiwan Cultural Center in Paris, comic artists Sean Chuang (莊永新), Ding Pao-yen (丁柏晏), Li Lung-chieh (李隆杰), Lin Li-chin (林莉菁), Zhou Jian-xin (周見信) and Zuo Hsuan (左萱 ) participated in three days of book signing and two roundtable seminars. Organizers of the festival accorded Taiwan a place of honor as the first guest country in the event’s 18 years.
MOC launches website to promote exchanges with NSP countries
A dedicated website was recently launched by the Ministry of Culture to promote exchanges with countries targeted under Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy while enhancing public awareness of the government initiative. Available in Chinese and English, the site serves as a portal to related government agencies and news releases. It also provides a systematic presentation of various government projects aimed at enhancing cultural interchange with partner countries under the policy. According to the MOC, since the establishment of its Southeast Asia Advisory Committee in 2015, the ministry has been inviting professionals from NSP countries to discuss ways of expanding cross-border cooperation. Following the temporary pause in such visits during the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual meeting will take place in person again this year, the MOC said, adding that the public is welcome to take part in events.
Taiwan film wins award at Far East Film Festival in Italy
“Day Off,” a feature film produced with support from the Ministry of Culture, won the Mulberry Award for Best Screenplay at the 2023 Far East Film Festival, according to the MOC April 30. Directed by Taiwan filmmaker Fu Tien-yu (傅天余) and starring local actress Lu Hsiao-fen (陸小芬), the film tells the story of a hairdresser’s struggle with social and generational changes. The movie was selected for recognition from among the 43 entries from 11 Asian countries and territories contending at the 25th edition of the event in Udine, Italy. Fu said during the award presentation ceremony that she was delighted to receive the honor. She added that she believes the production, which was inspired in part by her life growing up in a salon similar to the one in the film, will help bridge cultural and national differences.
Presidential Office resumes sleepover program
“Spend A Night at Taiwan’s Presidential Office Building,” a contest that offers international visitors the opportunity to experience Taiwan’s historic Presidential Office Building firsthand, was relaunched April 21 in Taipei City. Organized by the PO, Taipei-based General Association of Chinese Culture, Ministries of Culture and Foreign Affairs and other organizations like the Ministry of Transportation and Communications’ Tourism Bureau, the sleepover program gives winners a unique view of the country’s friendliness, freedom, democracy and diversity. Secretary-General to the President Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) said at a news conference that the building is both a landmark and a symbol of the country’s highest office. The program will further enhance understanding of the office as an approachable seat of government rather than a remote authority, he added.
Photos: Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, Executive Yuan, Lausanne Comic Strip Festival, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, National Central Library, National Science and Technology Council, Presidential Office, Taiwan External Trade Development Council and Tourism Burea