Taiwan launched a cultural division in the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, Prague, as part of government efforts to deepen Taiwan-Czechia friendship and expand bilateral cooperation, the Ministry of Culture said Sept. 14.
Czech attendees of the plaque unveiling ceremony included Senate President Milos Vystrcil, National Museum Director General Michal Lukes, National Technical Museum Director General Karel Ksandr, officials from the Presidential Office and Ministry of Culture, and art and culture experts.
According to MOC Minister Shih Che, the division provides an opportunity for the people on both sides to deepen their understanding of each other through arts and culture. Established earlier this year, it is the first of its kind in Central Europe, he said, adding that the ministry expects cultural exchanges with Taiwan to spread to other countries in the region as a result.
Shih said that although Taiwan and Czechia are geographically distant, the two countries share the experience of pursuing freedom and democracy. They both respect cultural diversity, a core value of democracy, he added.
Following his remarks, Vystrcil said the division’s launch is a positive development that he expects will spur exchanges based on common beliefs and further strengthen Taiwan and Czechia’s relationship.
After the event, Shih and his delegation took the opportunity to visit the upper house of Parliament, National Technical Museum and Karlin Music Theatre in Prague to watch a performance staged by Taipei City-based Diabolo Dance Theatre.
Shih’s visit to the Czech Republic is part of his eight-day European tour. He is scheduled to stop in the Netherlands and France before returning to Taiwan Sept. 19. (YCH-E)
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