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President Han meets delegation of the 36th North American Taiwan Chambers of Commerce Association Homecoming Group, emphasizing the principle of regardless of political affiliation, only having Taiwan in our hearts

On the afternoon of May 27, President Daniel K.Y. Han, accompanied by Legislators Lin Szu-ming, Lin Yueh-chin, Lin Kuo-chen, Director of the International Affairs Department Kevin C.F. Lin, and Deputy Minister Joshua Jhao-Syong Ruan of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC), met with a delegation of seven members from the 36th North American Taiwan Chambers of Commerce Association Homecoming Group.


President Han first took a group photo with the attending legislators and members of the delegation, and on behalf of the Legislative Yuan, warmly welcomed all the leaders of the North American Taiwan Chambers of Commerce Association "home." President Han remarked that the affection and support for the Republic of China (Taiwan) from those present have long transcended words. President Han noted that the North American Taiwan Chambers of Commerce Association's series of proactive "door-knocking" activities in 2024 set a new record. The delegation, consisting of 38 members from various North American chambers, met with over 50 U.S. Senators and Representatives. This delegation was not only the largest and youngest in history but also achieved a record number of meetings with U.S. legislators. Their efforts have been instrumental in advocating for the prompt passage of the Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement (ADTA) in the U.S. Senate and supporting Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations.

President Han continued by expressing gratitude for the association's efforts. After their "door-knocking" tour in Washington, D.C., the delegation promptly traveled to Ottawa, Canada, earlier this month for another round of meetings. Recognizing the importance of joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) for Taiwan's economic and trade development, the association aims to leverage Canada's role as the rotating chair of the CPTPP this year. They have intensified their lobbying efforts to support Taiwan's accession to the CPTPP. President Han emphasized that overseas Taiwanese businesspeople bear the significant responsibilities of driving economic growth, supporting their families, and managing their employees. Despite these burdens, they always stand ready to support Taiwan whenever needed. At the same time, Vice President Dr. Johnny C. Chiang is leading a bipartisan delegation in Geneva to advocate for Taiwan's participation in the 77th World Health Assembly (WHA), conveying the earnest desire of Taiwan's 23 million people to join the World Health Organization (WHO). President Han noted that Taiwan's participation is not only because it is a responsible member of the international community and needs to stay informed about the latest advancements in law and public health, but also because Taiwan is committed to contributing to global assistance efforts. He emphasized that what Vice President Chiang and the legislative delegation are doing is aligned with the ongoing efforts of the North American Taiwan Chambers of Commerce Association. Together, they hope to harness this steadfast and warm support to gain global recognition and backing for Taiwan.

President Han continued by acknowledging that while there have been many conflicts in the Legislative Yuan recently, he believes these are part of the democratic process. After experiencing clashes, adjustments, and reflections, he is confident that the disputes will be resolved, and Taiwan will evolve into a more mature democratic institution. As President of the Legislative Yuan, he hopes the Legislative Yuan will become a model of democracy in the Chinese-speaking world and anticipates that beautiful outcomes will emerge from these conflicts. President Han also highlighted that the proportion of female legislators in the 11th Legislature has reached 41.6%, with over 50 new legislators joining. He noted that these individuals are not only highly competent but also very willing to listen to the concerns of overseas Taiwanese. He looks forward to more exchanges with the leaders of the overseas Taiwanese community and hopes they will "come home" more often.

During his speech, Joey Chiang, President of the North American Taiwan Chambers of Commerce Association, first expressed his gratitude to President Han and the representatives from the three party groups for taking the time to meet. He conveyed that the delegation felt honored to "come home" and meet with President Han. President Chiang highlighted that the Association of Overseas Taiwanese Businesspeople of the Legislative Yuan has always been a crucial support for Taiwanese businesspeople abroad. Under Honorary President Han’s leadership, legislators from all parties have demonstrated significant care and enthusiasm for overseas Taiwanese businesspeople, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere. President Chiang mentioned that in March of this year, with the assistance of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the U.S., he and his partners from the North American Taiwan Chambers of Commerce Association traveled to Washington D.C. for a "door-knocking" tour. During this visit, they met with U.S. legislators and actively lobbied for several pro-Taiwan policies, including the United States-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade, ADTA, and the promotion of Taiwan's international participation. These efforts received significant feedback and support from the U.S. Congress. In early May, they organized another "door-knocking" tour, this time to Ottawa, where they met with Canadian Minister of International Trade Mary Ng and several Senators and Members of Parliament. They lobbied for Taiwan's accession to the CPTPP and worked to strengthen bilateral and multilateral trade relations between Taiwan and Canada. President Chiang emphasized that freedom and democracy are core values of Taiwan and symbols of pride for overseas Taiwanese expatriates. Although recent conflicts have arisen in the Legislative Yuan, and despite differing political stances among parties, he believes that, based on a people-centered approach, the Legislative Yuan will ultimately create the greatest benefits for the nation and its people. He concluded by wishing the Legislative Yuan success under President Han's leadership, hoping for seamless cooperation with the executive branch to jointly safeguard the democracy, freedom, and peace of the Republic of China (Taiwan).

During the bilateral exchange, Legislator Lin Szu-ming expressed that overseas compatriots are our strongest support, especially in promoting the nation's development. He conveyed his gratitude for their collective efforts in assisting Taiwan and extended a heartfelt welcome, encouraging them to come home often. Legislator Lin Kuo-chen remarked that the development of any country relies on its expatriates. Today's meeting is also a representation of the Taiwanese people's respect for them. Despite the current challenges faced by Taiwan, with the support of expatriates and chambers of commerce, he is confident that Taiwan will be able to overcome these obstacles in the future. Legislator Lin Yueh-chin expressed her delight at meeting everyone at the Legislative Yuan. She was deeply moved by how Taiwanese businesspeople abroad continue to care for Taiwan. She looks forward to working together to elevate Taiwan onto the international stage.

President Han continued the meeting by engaging with the guests on a wide range of topics, including international participation, democracy and freedom, political and economic development, and the involvement of the younger generation in politics. He concluded with a special message, urging everyone to adhere to the principle of "regardless of political affiliation, only having Taiwan in our hearts," and emphasized the importance of mutual support and unity, as they all deeply love Taiwan. The meeting lasted approximately 30 minutes and had a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. It concluded with a warm exchange of souvenirs between President Han and President Chiang, bringing the event to a successful close.