On the afternoon of July 22, Legislative Yuan Deputy Secretary General Chang Yu-Jung (張裕榮), accompanied by KMT Legislator Lee Yen-Hsiu, received a 10-member delegation of political leaders from the U.S. Midwest.
Deputy Secretary General Chang first extended a warm welcome, on behalf of the Legislative Yuan of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and President Daniel K.Y. Han (韓國瑜), to Deputy Governor Grace Hou and the delegation. He noted that the delegation had traveled from several major states in the U.S. Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Ohio. He said the visit demonstrated the strong foundation of Taiwan–U.S. relations and symbolized increasingly close cooperation between the two sides at the state and local government levels.
Deputy Secretary General Chang noted that in recent years, Taiwan and states across the U.S. Midwest have achieved fruitful results in cooperation across a wide range of fields. He highlighted that from agricultural technology and artificial intelligence to semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, as well as the automotive industry, electric vehicles, aerospace, drones, and precision machinery, the two sides have established solid and forward-looking partnerships. He added that these achievements represent not only growth in economic and trade figures, but also mutual trust and friendship, demonstrating confidence in their shared development in the future.
Deputy Secretary General Chang emphasized that Taiwan has always believed that the strongest partnerships are built not only between governments but also through people-to-people, business, academic, and parliamentary exchanges, noting that parliamentary diplomacy has therefore remained an indispensable force in Taiwan–U.S. relations. He added that every reciprocal visit and dialogue helps build deeper understanding and trust, and that the Legislative Yuan will also continue to promote exchanges and cooperation with the U.S. Congress and state governments, so as to jointly create more opportunities for cooperation.
Deputy Secretary General Chang welcomed U.S. state governments to establish representative offices in Taiwan and continue to deepen exchanges and cooperation in areas including economic and trade affairs, technology, education, and culture, creating broader opportunities for cooperation and development for the next generation.
Deputy Secretary General Chang concluded by quoting an ancient saying: “Is it not a pleasure to have friends come from afar?” He noted that Taiwan may not be large in territory, but its determination is never small. He said that Taiwan remains steadfast in its commitment to democracy and freedom and is willing to work hand in hand with the U.S. and all like-minded international partners to jointly promote regional peace, prosperity, and democratic development.
On behalf of the delegation, Illinois Deputy Governor Grace Hou thanked Deputy Secretary General Chang for his warm reception. She said that throughout the visit, the delegation had experienced the warmth and friendliness of the people of Taiwan. She noted that the delegation’s primary purpose in visiting Taiwan was to learn about Taiwan’s National Health Insurance system and that they would later visit healthcare institutions in person. She mentioned that the delegation had already visited the New Taipei City Government and looked forward to meeting with more Taiwanese government officials, industry representatives, and leaders of NGOs to discuss issues related to health and agriculture. She also expressed hope that the two sides would continue to promote regional peace and added that Illinois would establish a trade office in Taiwan in the near future.
The two sides subsequently exchanged views extensively on issues including cross-Strait relations. The meeting lasted approximately 30 minutes and was conducted in a warm and cordial atmosphere. Following the exchange of commemorative gifts and a group photo, the exchange concluded successfully. The delegation was then personally accompanied by Legislator Lee on a tour of the Legislative Yuan chamber, where they also exchanged views on the operation of the Legislative Yuan. (2026/07/22)
