At noon on July 11, President Daniel K.Y. Han of the Legislative Yuan hosted a banquet at the Kang-Yuan restaurant of the Legislative Yuan for the 31st Homecoming Delegation of the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce. He was accompanied by KMT Legislator Fu Kun-Chi and DPP Legislator Chung Chia-Pin, Vice Presidents of the Association of Overseas Taiwanese Businessmen of the Legislative Yuan, along with KMT Legislator Hsu Yu-Chen, TPP Legislator Lin Kuo-Chen, International Affairs Department Director Kevin C.F. Lin, and Vice Minister Chang Liang-Ming of the Overseas Community Affairs Council.

In his remarks, President Han first extended a warm welcome to the delegation, noting that the presence of legislators from across party lines underscored the Legislative Yuan’s strong recognition of the longstanding contributions made by overseas compatriots. He noted that the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce (WTCC), composed of regional federations across six continents, serves as a vital hub for uniting the strength of Taiwanese business communities worldwide. President Han added that the WTCC not only enhances global awareness of Taiwan and elevates its international visibility, but also fosters a close-knit and united network of Taiwanese businesspeople around the world. He further mentioned that overseas compatriots have long supported one another, extending mutual assistance and playing a pivotal role at critical moments. In particular, the WTCC has demonstrated deep affection and delivered tangible contributions to their homeland by continuously supporting patients with rare diseases over the past 16 years—an effort that has benefited 563 families to date.

President Han went on to say that in light of the current complex global landscape—marked by frequent geopolitical tensions in Europe, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific—Taiwan must all the more rely on the support and connections of overseas compatriots. He emphasized that their indispensable role at critical junctures is essential to expanding the international space of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and advancing diplomatic and overseas community affairs with flexibility and pragmatism. He therefore stressed that on key issues vital to national interests—such as national defense, diplomacy, and overseas community affairs—all political parties must set aside their differences and work in unity, adding that only through such cooperation can Taiwan be safeguarded in the international arena, its presence made visible to the world, and its overall national security effectively strengthened.

President Han further noted that in addition to Taiwan’s internationally renowned technology industry, Taiwanese businesspeople around the world have quietly distinguished themselves in their respective fields, emerging as unsung “hidden champions.” He added that by integrating existing resources in industry, tourism, and diplomacy with the strength of the overseas Taiwanese community, Taiwan will be better positioned to expand its external relations and create new highlights in its engagement with the international community. President Han also emphasized that although no party holds a majority in the 11th Legislative Yuan—resulting in sharp debates and differing views on certain issues—there remains a strong cross-party consensus in supporting overseas compatriots and advancing external affairs. He stressed that the Legislative Yuan will continue to serve as a steadfast pillar of support for overseas compatriots, fully committed to providing all necessary assistance. In closing, President Han wished the delegation a safe, smooth, and fulfilling visit, and extended a sincere invitation to Taiwanese businesspeople around the world to maintain close ties with their homeland through continued engagement and exchange.

President Kenneth Wu of the WTCC expressed his gratitude to President Han and the attending legislators for their warm and generous hospitality. He remarked that the Legislative Yuan and the Association of Overseas Taiwanese Businessmen of the Legislative Yuan have long provided steadfast, cross-party support for Taiwanese business communities abroad, serving as the WTCC’s strongest and most reliable pillar. He added that as the nation’s highest representative body, the Legislative Yuan plays a pivotal role in safeguarding democratic values, advancing the legislative process, and overseeing government administration—demonstrating to the world the maturity and resilience of Taiwan’s democratic system. President Wu went on to note that the WTCC continues to deepen engagement across six continents through grassroots initiatives, actively fostering interaction with various sectors worldwide. He expressed hope that this bottom-up influence will help enhance Taiwan’s international visibility. He also encouraged overseas compatriots to actively participate in local electoral affairs, thereby strengthening the resilience of Taiwan’s citizen diplomacy through concrete actions. Such engagement, he noted, will deepen substantive friendships with other nations and further elevate Taiwan’s international standing and visibility. In conclusion, he once again expressed his sincere appreciation for the Legislative Yuan’s warm hospitality and affirmed that Taiwanese businesspeople and overseas compatriots will continue to support Taiwan’s international participation through various means, exerting tangible influence on the global stage.

The two sides then exchanged commemorative gifts, after which President Han, joined by the attending legislators, took a group photo with the delegation members. The luncheon then formally commenced. The luncheon lasted approximately one hour and forty minutes, during which Legislators Fu, Chung, Hsu, and Lin engaged warmly with members of the delegation. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, with both hosts and guests enjoying the occasion. The event concluded successfully on a warm and joyful note.