On Wednesday, January 1st, the New York Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association held the “114th Anniversary of the Founding of the Republic of China and New Year Celebration.” Officials from the New York Economic and Cultural Office and prominent Overseas Chinese leaders and community members attended the event.
The commemoration ceremony started with the national anthems of the Republic of China and the United States, followed by speeches from guests. Chairman of the New York Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, Zhu Chaoran, expressed, “The new year is full of opportunities and challenges, but as a member of the association, we will continue to steadfastly support the freedom, democracy, and rule of law of the Republic of China. We look forward to enhancing cooperation and serving the community together to promote prosperity.” He also hoped for a better and happier 2025 for everyone in the community.
In his speech, Director Li Zhiqiang extended thanks on behalf of the Republic of China government to the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association and various overseas Chinese organizations for their longstanding support. He acknowledged the warmth he felt from the New York overseas Chinese community and mentioned his efforts to learn Cantonese to better communicate with the community, aiming for closer bonds in the new year.
Regarding US-Taiwan relations, he believed that under the incoming US administration, the relationship between Taiwan and the United States will further advance in the new year. “Both parties in the US Congress have shown strong support for Taiwan. I believe that after Trump takes office on January 20th, this support will remain steadfast. The relationship between Taiwan and the US will continue to develop positively.”
Li Zhiqiang also highlighted his focus on improving consular services for overseas compatriots since taking office, including hiring volunteers to assist with passport, visa, and document processing, making it convenient for individuals to apply for necessary documents without having to travel to Manhattan, New York. Apart from the service points already established in Florida and New Jersey, expansion plans include areas in Pennsylvania and northern New York.
On that day, Deputy Director Zhang Lixian from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, Director Chen Yongfeng from the New York Overseas Chinese Cultural and Educational Services Center, representatives from the New York City Mayor’s Office, as well as various Overseas Chinese leaders and community members, all attended the event. ◇