President Han: We must strengthen a better environment for agricultural development and unite government, industry, and academia to help farmers achieve sustainable operations.
On the morning of June 5, President Daniel K.Y. Han (韓國瑜) of the Legislative Yuan attended the inauguration ceremony of the Association for Taiwan Local Produce and Cultural Exchange, launched by Legislator Tsai Chun-Chou. Distinguished guests in attendance included TPP party whip Legislator Chen Ching-Lung, Legislator Dr. Alice Chang, Legislator Hsu Yu-Chen, Legislator Chen Gau-Tzu, Legislator Chang Chih-Lun, Legislator Dr. Ko Ju-Chun, Legislator Dr. Wang An-Hsiang, Legislator Dr. Chiu Hui-Ju, Legislator Dr. Hsu Chung-Hsin, Legislator Dr. Hung Yu-Hsiang, Legislator Dr. Yang Chiung-Ying, Legislator Dr. Liu Shu-Pin, Deputy Magistrate Hsieh Shu-Ya of Yunlin County, and President Isaac Chou of the Association of Youth, Sustainability and Leadership Development. At the invitation of Legislator Tsai, young farmers and regional revitalization groups from central Taiwan promoted, showcased and sold their premium products in the plaza in front of Kang Yuan Restaurant at the Legislative Yuan.
As the event’s initiator, Legislator Tsai opened the ceremony by delivering an address before inviting the distinguished guests for a group photo. In his remarks, President Han said that it was an honor to attend the inauguration ceremony of the Association for Taiwan Local Produce and Cultural Exchange, initiated by Legislator Tsai. He also extended his gratitude to the legislators, Deputy Magistrate Hsieh, local farmers, and the Tunghai University Alumni Association for their attendance.
President Han further noted that farmers dedicate themselves to the land and work tirelessly to sustain their livelihoods. It is the responsibility of governments at all levels to make the working conditions and environment more robust for them, a cause that demands joint action from industry, government, and academia. He expressed profound sympathy for the ambitious youth who returned to their hometowns and became farmers, but were ultimately forced out of agriculture by unstable incomes. He pointed out that while Taiwan’s diverse geography is suitable for growing vegetables and fruits, the potential to cultivate profitable medicinal herbs and plants is also worth exploring as a new source of income for farmers. He emphasized that as an island, Taiwan already faces the critical issue of a lower food self-sufficiency rate, which could even threaten national security. Therefore, he called on all sectors of society to pay greater attention to agricultural development and farmers’ rights. He expressed confidence that collaboration between the public and private sectors will create a more stable and sustainable farming environment.
Following President Han’s remarks, Deputy Magistrate Hsieh of Yunlin County also delivered a congratulatory address. Witnessed by the audience, the Articles of Association were passed, and the Chair and Deputy Chairs were elected, followed by a video on regional revitalization and a showcase of local farm products. The ceremony lasted about one hour and concluded successfully.
