At noon on April 8, Legislative Yuan President Daniel K.Y. Han (韓國瑜) hosted a luncheon for the 38th Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce of North America (TCCNA) Homecoming and Investment Delegation. He was accompanied by Legislative Yuan Vice President Dr. Johnny C. Chiang (江啟臣), who is also serving as President of the Association of Overseas Businessmen of the Legislative Yuan; DPP Legislator Chung Chia-Pin and TPP Legislator Tsai Chun-Chou, both Vice Presidents of the Association; KMT Legislator Dr. Ko Chih-En; and Deputy Minister Lee Yen-Hui of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC).
In his remarks, President Han, on behalf of the Legislative Yuan, extended a warm welcome to the delegation on their return to Taiwan. He noted that since its founding in 1988, the TCCNA has brought together the strengths of 35 regional chambers, not only advancing business development, but also maintaining a deep and enduring commitment to Taiwan.
President Han expressed gratitude for the longstanding support of overseas Taiwanese businesspeople. Whether in response to the Texas floods or Typhoon Danas, Taiwanese business communities abroad have consistently demonstrated generosity and solidarity through donations and disaster relief efforts, thereby showcasing Taiwan’s spirit of mutual assistance on the global stage. During the severe flooding caused by the breach of the Matai’an Creek in Hualien County, overseas Taiwanese businesspeople also actively participated in relief and reconstruction efforts, demonstrating their deep ties to Taiwan.
President Han further remarked that while 19th-century Britain was known as “the empire on which the sun never sets,” Taiwanese businesspeople in the 21st century, through their continued efforts, have likewise built a global presence that spans continents, forming a network that reaches wherever the sun shines. He also noted that many Taiwanese businesspeople ventured abroad in earlier years with little more than a one-way ticket, demonstrating remarkable determination. Whenever Taiwan faces challenges, overseas compatriots have consistently mobilized swiftly and stood united, serving as a vital force in supporting the nation.
President Han emphasized that national defense, diplomacy, and overseas community affairs are three key pillars of government work. While overseas community affairs may be less visible, they are crucial in maintaining bonds. He affirmed that the Legislative Yuan will continue to uphold the principle that, regardless of party affiliation, Taiwan is our sole focus, and will remain attentive to the needs of overseas compatriots and Taiwanese businesspeople.
President Han concluded by raising a toast to express his respect and appreciation for the long-standing contributions of Taiwanese business leaders, and expressed hope for continued exchanges and cooperation in the future.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Ms. Eugenia Henry, President of the TCCNA, thanked President Han, Vice President Chiang, and the cross-party legislators for taking time to receive them. She echoed President Han’s remarks, noting that “regardless of party affiliation, Taiwan is our sole focus” is also a shared belief among Taiwanese businesspeople worldwide. She added that when the nation calls, overseas Taiwanese business communities will always step forward to offer their full support.
Following the remarks, President Han joined attending legislators and delegation members for a group photo and the exchange of commemorative gifts. Vice President Chiang then delivered remarks. He noted that despite the heavy demands of legislative affairs and parliamentary diplomacy, he places great importance on engagement with Taiwanese business communities. He pointed out that over the past two years, the current Legislative Yuan has received more than 6,000 international guests, including parliamentarians, political leaders, think tank scholars, and overseas Taiwanese representatives. This highlights the achievements of Taiwan’s parliamentary diplomacy.
Vice President Chiang further noted that he has led multiple overseas delegations over the past two years to strengthen ties with Taiwanese communities abroad. In addition to participating in business community events, he has engaged extensively with political leaders, industry representatives, and think tanks around the world. He also expressed appreciation for the support of overseas communities in advancing parliamentary diplomacy.
The luncheon formally commenced following Vice President Chiang’s remarks. Both sides engaged in in-depth discussions on economic cooperation, overseas community affairs, and tourism. The event lasted approximately 100 minutes and concluded on a warm and cordial note. (2026/04/08)
