President Tsai Ing-wen opened the 2021 Austronesian Forum Dec. 7 in Taipei City, pledging to work with like-minded partners in maintaining the dynamism of Austronesian communities while spurring sustainable development across the Indo-Pacific.
The government’s efforts in cooperating with Austronesian societies are paying dividends, Tsai said. Such progress is evidenced in areas spanning culture, language, trade, ecological conservation, publishing and translation, as well as international talent cultivation, she added.
In addition to the attendees from Austronesian members, Tsai also welcomed the participation of the American Institute in Taiwan for the first time, expressing hope that the U.S. will join the forum officially, as an observer.
The president made the remarks before representatives from 15 countries and territories. High-profile attendees included Premier Su Tseng-chang; the Cabinet-level Council of Indigenous Peoples Minister Icyang Parod; Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang; and former Palau President Tommy Remengesau Jr.
According to Tsai, this year’s edition focuses on how to reconcile traditional Austronesian systems of leadership with contemporary politics. It is also expected that the forum will highlight Austronesian perspectives on how to ensure regional and global peace while facilitating exchanges and cooperation between countries and territories in the Indo-Pacific, she said.
Tsai also took the opportunity to express condolences on the passing of Austronesian traditional leaders, including the late Paramount High Chief Ibedul Yutaka Gibbons of Palau, and the late Council Chairman Irooj Kotak Loeak of the Marshall Islands.
Initiated by Taiwan and headquartered in Palau, the forum includes allies the Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau and Tuvalu, as well as Guam, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines and U.S. state Hawaii, with Central American ally Belize participating as an observer. (YCH-E)
Write to Taiwan Today at ttonline@mofa.gov.tw