Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim delivered an opening address for the 2024 Junior Chamber International World Congress Oct. 29 in northern Taiwan’s Taoyuan City, advocating for members to pursue mutual understanding and goals that benefit all.
Taiwan is known for its diverse cultural influences, ethnic groups and industries and highly values freedom and democracy, Hsiao said. The government and people believe that freedom is the foundation of innovation and that innovation drives prosperity, she asserted, adding that Taiwan is resilient in the face of challenges and is willing to share its spirit with the global community.
According to Hsiao, this year’s congress is themed “Technological Innovation for a Prosperous and Sustainable Future” and focuses on U.N. Sustainable Development Goals 3, 8, 12 and 13, which respectively promote good health and well-being, decent work and economic growth, responsible consumption and production, and climate action. Such goals align with the government’s policies, she said, citing as evidence the establishment of the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee and the National Climate Change Committee by President Lai Ching-te.
The vice president went on to thank JCI President Kaveen Kumar Kumaravel for emphasizing the importance of fostering happiness and world peace, adding that this is the essence of cultivating leadership. She concluded with the hope that visiting JCI members get the chance to travel around Taiwan during their stay.
Running through Nov. 2, the congress involves more than 4,000 participants from 100 countries and features meetings, skill development sessions, a trade show and cultural events. (YCH-E)
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