On the afternoon of September 3, Legislative Yuan Deputy Secretary-General Chang Yu-Jung, accompanied by Director Kevin C.F. Lin of the Department of International Affairs, warmly received a delegation of 10 U.S. Southeastern State Legislative Leaders.

Deputy Secretary-General Chang first extended a welcome on behalf of Legislative Yuan President Daniel K.Y. Han, expressing delight at the delegation's visit. Quoting a Chinese proverb, he stated, "Tis a great joy to welcome friends from afar," and noted how pleased he was to host a delegation that has traveled great distances to visit Taiwan.

Chang emphasized his deep appreciation for the delegation's ongoing support for Taiwan, which includes helping their state legislatures pass pro-Taiwan resolutions, writing letters to the World Health Assembly (WHA) in support of Taiwan’s participation, and organizing Taiwan-U.S. relations forums in their respective states. He expressed sincere gratitude for these steadfast efforts.

He continued by highlighting the economic potential for collaboration between Taiwan and the southeastern U.S. states, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. The southeastern U.S. is a hub for the automotive and EV industries, while Taiwan has a comprehensive EV supply chain. He mentioned that last year, 16 Taiwanese EV-related companies visited North Carolina for business exploration, and he firmly believes in the great potential for cooperation between the two regions. In conclusion, Chang once again welcomed the delegation and wished them a successful visit.

In response, delegation leader Bertram Robert Stivers II, Kentucky Senate President, thanked the Legislative Yuan for its warm reception. He expressed his eagerness to see Taiwan-U.S. relations grow deeper at all levels, from local to national governments, and to continue strengthening bilateral cooperation. Following self-introductions from the delegation members, Deputy Secretary-General Chang extended his gratitude to the many members of the Southeastern State Legislative Taiwan Caucus present, hoping they would continue to support Taiwan in their respective legislatures. The meeting concluded with a mutual exchange of gifts and a group photo. The delegation was then given a tour of the Legislative Chamber, during which Director Lin and the members discussed various topics related to the Legislative Yuan in a friendly and engaging atmosphere. The hour-long visit ended on a positive note.

List of Visitors:

1.  Bertram Robert Stivers II, Kentucky Senate President

2.  Regina Lynn Stivers, Spouse of Kentucky Senate President

3.  Josh Bonner, Chairman of the Georgia House of Representatives Defense and Veterans Affairs Committee

4.  Linda Coleman-Madison, Co-Chair of the Alabama Senate Taiwan Caucus

5.  Jeremy Faison, Majority Leader of the Tennessee House of Representatives

6.  Thomas E. “Tommy” Pope, Speaker Pro Tempore of the South Carolina House of Representatives

7.  Stephen Ross, Chairman of the North Carolina House of Representatives Commerce Committee

8.  Dr. Patrick Sellers, Chairman of the Alabama House of Representatives Taiwan Caucus

9.  Cherlynn Watley Stevenson, Minority Floor Leader of the Kentucky House of Representatives

10.   Andy Whitt, Chairman of the Alabama House of Representatives Economic Development and Tourism Committee