Africa Day celebrated in Taipei

President Tsai Ing-wen expressed hope that Taiwan can further expand mutually beneficial cooperation with African nations at a reception celebrating Africa Day Nov. 18 in Taipei City.

Held annually to commemorate the May 25, 1963, establishment of the Organization of African Unity, Africa Day marks the journey and struggles of African people in their pursuit of democracy, freedom and independence. Arranged by African embassies and representative offices in Taiwan, the Taipei event is typically staged in May but was delayed this year in view of Tsai’s inauguration the same month.

In her address, the president noted Taiwan enjoys close ties with African countries, and voiced gratitude for the attendance of delegates from many allied and friendly African nations at her inauguration. She also highlighted the continent’s huge growth potential, praising the achievements of African people for building robust economies and raising standards of living.

“African solidarity and cooperation promise steady progress toward a future of prosperity. Taiwan is proud to have been a part of the journey,” she said. “As an ally and partner who shares the universal values of democracy, tolerance and diversity, we’ll go forward with you hand in hand.”

The reception also served as a farewell for the delegates from six African nations who visited for the 2016 Taiwan-Africa Business Forum. A total of 18 business leaders from Republic of China (Taiwan) diplomatic allies Burkina Faso, Sao Tome and Principe and Swaziland as well as partner nations Mozambique, Nigeria and South Africa attended the seminar and toured local companies to explore cooperation opportunities from Nov. 14-18.

According to the president, cooperation between Taiwan and its African allies has expanded steadily in recent years across fields including agricultural technology, education, medicine, renewable energy and vocational training. She noted the success of such collaborative programs was evidenced by the attendance at the reception of Taiwan Scholarship recipients from the continent.

Going forward, Tsai said that the government will work to further enhance ties under the “steadfast diplomacy” policy, which is based on the principle of mutual assistance for mutual benefits. She also thanked African allies and friendly nations for their longstanding support of Taiwan’s efforts to contribute meaningfully in the international community. (KH-E)