Taiwan Today

The new NT$5.6 billion (US$170 million) American Institute in Taiwan compound will not just be a building, but rather a focal point of relations between Taiwan and the United States, outgoing AIT Director Stephen Young said June 22. Speaking mandarin throughout the site dedication ceremony in Taipei City’s Neihu District, Young said he was glad to see the AIT project finally get off the ground. “I can leave Taiwan feeling I have done my job well.” Su Chi, Taiwan’s National Security Council secretary-general, said during the ceremony that U.S. construction of a permanent de facto embassy facility can be viewed as restoring mutual ties and trust that had declined in the past few years. “The building signifies the longevity and sustainability of Taiwan-U.S. relations.” Echoing Su’s comments, Legislative Yuan President Wang Jyng-pin said the project represents Taiwan turning a new page in bilateral ties. Also attending the dedication ceremony were Vice-Premier Paul Chiu, Taipei City Mayor Hau Lung-bin, former Academic Sinica President Lee Yuan-tseh, former Foreign Affairs ministers Chen Chien-jen and Chen Tan-sun, former representatives to the United States Fredrick Chien and Joseph Wu, and Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. Chairwoman Nita Ing. According to the AIT, the 6.5-hectare site has been leased for 99 years and is scheduled to open in 2012. The compound will include an office building, parking area and ancillary structures. All of the AIT’s Taipei offices, including the American Cultural Center, Commercial Section, Chinese Language and Area Studies School, and Agricultural Trade Office, will now be located at a single locale. The institute said the new facility will enable locals to enjoy better facilities and surrounds when applying for U.S. visas. It also stressed that the design will preserve the natural landscape as much as possible, while incorporating the latest technology and security features. (CYH-JSM)