On the evening of October 5th, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York held a National Day reception to celebrate the 115th anniversary of the Republic of China in New York City. Approximately 500 attendees, including local dignitaries, UN diplomats, and members of the overseas Taiwanese community, gathered for the event. Lee Chih-chiang, Director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, highlighted the significance of this year as both the 30th anniversary of Taiwan’s first direct presidential election and the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. He emphasized the shared values of democracy and freedom between Taiwan and the United States, noting the deepening cooperation between the two countries in various fields such as semiconductors, robotics, education, and urban exchange.
Representing New York Governor Kathy Hochul, Senior Director James Kostenblatt of Empire State Development delivered a speech congratulating the Republic of China on its National Day celebration.
Menissa Rambally, Permanent Representative of Saint Lucia to the United Nations, delivered remarks on behalf of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies at the UN. Rambally congratulated the Taiwanese people on their achievements and contributions over the past 115 years, emphasizing Taiwan’s positive impact not only on allies and partners but also on the global community.
Rambally reaffirmed Saint Lucia’s continued support for Taiwan’s participation in the UN system and expressed expectations for Taiwan to continue playing a pivotal role in various fields.
In his address, Lee Chih-chiang highlighted the special significance of this year for Taiwan-US relations. As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary of independence, Taiwan also marks the 30th anniversary of its first direct presidential election. Both democracies believe in the right of people to pursue life, liberty, and happiness, with a shared democratic belief being one of the most important connections between the two countries.
Lee pointed out that the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York has been expanding local cooperation in areas such as semiconductors, robotics, urban governance, education, and cultural exchange across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania in recent years.
He mentioned that on June 16, the US State Department, Department of Commerce, and Department of Agriculture jointly encouraged all US states and local governments to engage with Taiwan, referring to Taiwan as a “vital U.S. partner.” Lee emphasized that Taiwan-US relations are further deepening through technological cooperation, aiming at mutual benefits rather than competition.
Citing the recognition of Taiwan’s technology industry by Huang Jen-hsun, founder and CEO of NVIDIA, Lee highlighted Taiwan’s crucial role in the development of the artificial intelligence sector. He noted that Taiwan has become the fourth largest trading partner of the United States and will continue to promote economic and trade cooperation between Taiwan and the US at the local level.
Regarding Taiwan’s international participation, Lee expressed gratitude to diplomatic allies and like-minded countries for speaking up for Taiwan at the UN last month, supporting Taiwan’s meaningful engagement in the UN system for maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
Lee conveyed his appreciation to the international community for its continuous support to Taiwan and acknowledged that Taiwan is not alone in its efforts to seek international participation, which is always encouraging.
Chairman Wu Jui-hsien of the New York Chinese Community Association stated that the establishment of the Republic of China is a significant chapter in modern history. The Chinese community in New York has long cherished its friendship with Taiwan and recognized Taiwan’s development in democracy, freedom, peace, and rule of law, as well as its contributions to the international community. He extended his blessings for Taiwan’s continuous prosperity and looked forward to deepening the friendship with the Chinese community in New York.
Chairman Su Chun-huai of the Taiwan Hall expressed that National Day not only celebrates Taiwan’s achievements but also showcases the resilience, innovation, and unity of the Taiwanese community. Overseas Taiwanese communities will continue to unite and look forward to exploring more opportunities for exchange and cooperation in the future.