On January 1, 2026, the 115th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of China was commemorated with a grand ceremony at the Sun Yat-sen Auditorium of the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association in New York. The event commenced with the solemn national anthems of both the Republic of China and the United States. Lee Chih-chiang, the Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, along with leaders of overseas Chinese communities, representatives of various organizations, and distinguished guests gathered to welcome the new year and express their blessings and support for the Republic of China.
The commemoration event was organized by the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of New York. In his address, Lee Chih-chiang extended New Year’s greetings to overseas compatriots and reflected on the founding history of the Republic of China. He mentioned how Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father, established the Republic of China in 1911, advocating the ideal of “for all under heaven” and laying the foundation for a democratic republic. Today, as the Republic of China continues to progress on the path of freedom, democracy, and rule of law, the support and contributions of overseas compatriots remain a vital force for the country’s stable development.
Lee Chih-chiang emphasized that overseas Chinese affairs are an indispensable part of national development. He acknowledged the enthusiastic support and care shown by the New York overseas Chinese community towards the Republic of China during his nearly 18-month tenure, as well as witnessed the dedication of various compatriot organizations in public welfare and support for national activities. On behalf of the government of the Republic of China, he expressed special thanks to the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of New York and the leaders of various compatriot organizations for their unwavering support, and sincerely appreciated the successful hosting of the New Year’s commemoration event.
In conclusion, Lee Chih-chiang wished for the prosperity and peace of the Republic of China, while also hoping for continued unity and cooperation within overseas Chinese communities, flourishing community activities, and the health and happiness of all overseas compatriots. His speech was met with warm applause from the audience.
Guests at the event included Deputy Director-General Chang Li-hsien of the Taipei Economic Cultural Office in New York, Wang Yi-ju, Director of the New York Chinese Community Cultural and Education Service Center, and advisers to the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of New York – Yu Chin-shan, Wu Jui-hsien, and Tseng Wei-kang, as well as several leaders of compatriot organizations, local elected officials, and community representatives who joined to make the event a great success. The organizers concluded the event with a group photo to create a precious record of this New Year’s commemoration ceremony.