Vice President Johnny C. Chiang of the Legislative Yuan was invited to attend the opening ceremony of the 3rd board meeting of the 31st Asia Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce (ATCC) at 8:30 a.m. on July 15, held at the Lin Hotel, Taichung. Distinguished guests included Vice President Hsiao Bi-Khim, Minister Hsu Chia-Ching of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC), Taichung City Mayor Lu Shiow-Yen, Legislators Chiu Chih-Wei and Ho Hsin-Chun, Deputy Minister of Economic Affairs Ho Chin-Tsang, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Remus Li-Kuo Chen, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Tu Wen-Jane, and World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce President Steven Lee. The event also saw the participation of Taiwanese businesspeople across the globe.
In his speech, Vice President Chiang warmly welcomed the Taiwanese business community to Taichung, especially as they "returned home." On behalf of the Legislative Yuan, he expressed gratitude to the hardworking Taiwanese businesspeople, acknowledging that their decades of tireless efforts on the front lines overseas have not only been for their own success but for the collective prosperity of the Republic of China (Taiwan). Vice President Chiang highlighted the official establishment of the 11th Association of Overseas Taiwanese Businessmen of the Legislative Yuan in March 2024, stating that it was an honor to serve as the association's president. He reiterated his heartfelt appreciation to all Taiwanese business partners for granting him this invaluable opportunity to represent the Legislative Yuan in serving Taiwanese businesses around the world.
Vice President Chiang emphasized that the significance of the Taiwanese business community cannot be adequately conveyed in just a few words. Through their tireless perseverance and indomitable spirit, they have not only built their own success across the globe but also earned recognition and respect for Taiwan in the international community. He remarked that it is these business leaders who are making Taiwan shine on the world stage, while also contributing to its safety and security. Vice President Chiang stressed that Taiwan’s "Mountains of Protection" are not limited to just one; rather, the Taiwanese business community collectively represents a range of protective forces for the nation. He called on the government to provide them with more resources and support.
Vice President Chiang continued by noting that the world is undergoing unpredictable changes, with recent developments underscoring the inseparability of politics and economics. While the global economy is gradually emerging from the shadow of the pandemic, we are still confronted with geopolitical risks, ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, and the persistent war between Russia and Ukraine. Additionally, the resurgence of protectionism and isolationism across various nations will present significant challenges for Taiwanese businesses in the future. However, despite these unfavorable conditions and various formidable challenges ahead, Asia's economy has shown remarkable resilience in the post-pandemic era, continuing to serve as a pillar of global economic development.
Vice President Chiang emphasized that due to Taiwan's geographical situation, its imports and exports have long relied on the Asian trade market. In this regard, the ATCC has played a pivotal role, not only supporting the stable development of Taiwanese businesses abroad but also fostering friendly relations between Taiwan and various Asian countries, thereby becoming a crucial bridge for Taiwan’s presence in Asia. Vice President Chiang reaffirmed his appreciation for the efforts of Taiwanese businesspeople across various fields and stressed the need for continued collaboration to help the Republic of China (Taiwan) secure more national interests and international support.
Vice President Chiang further mentioned that the Legislative Yuan is currently in session, with today and tomorrow being the final two days of the first session of the 11th Legislative Yuan. All members are intensively deliberating and voting on important bills. Although he was scheduled to preside over a sitting today, he took the time to attend the opening ceremony with Legislators Chiu Chih-Wei and Ho Hsin-Chun, demonstrating the importance the Legislative Yuan places on the ATCC. President Han also entrusted him to express his support and gratitude to the Taiwanese business community. Many achievements in parliamentary diplomacy have been made possible with the support and assistance of Taiwanese businesspeople. He took this opportunity to clarify that, despite frequent disagreements on domestic issues, there is unanimous support across party lines for "helping Taiwanese businesses secure their rights," which is a major consensus in the Legislative Yuan.
Vice President Chiang concluded by once again expressing gratitude on behalf of the Legislative Yuan to the Taiwanese business community, welcoming them back home. He extended his best wishes for the prosperity and success of all ATCC members and hoped for a successful outcome of the board meeting. After speeches from other distinguished guests, Vice President Chiang joined Vice President Hsiao and the attending guests for a group photo, exchanging warm and cordial greetings, creating a lively and friendly atmosphere.
