Taiwanese Choir Triumphs in Tokyo International Choir Competition Despite Chinese Pressure
The Taiwanese choir delegation faced oppression from the Chinese authorities during their participation in the Tokyo International Choir Competition in Japan. The Chinese regime demanded the removal of the Taiwanese national flag, leading to a condemnation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China. Despite this setback, the Kaohsiung Nivon Choir ultimately clinched the gold medal in the Tokyo Choir Competition, receiving sincere congratulations from supporters.
In a press release, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China announced the participation of six choirs, including Nivon Choir, Shin Ya Elementary School from Xinyi Township, Hsiau Kung Elementary School from Taoyuan District in Kaohsiung City, Green Rhythm Choir, Nahu & Malt Children’s Choir, and Octagon Tower Men’s Choir, in the 7th Tokyo International Choir Competition held from July 25 to 27.
During the competition, Chinese authorities audaciously demanded that the organizing committee remove the Taiwanese national flag and change the name of the participation from “Taiwan” to “Chinese Taipei.” Upon receiving this information on the evening of July 26, the Taipei Representative Office in Japan immediately engaged in negotiations with the organizing committee and sought the support of Keiji Furuya, the chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Parliamentarians’ Friendship Association, to advocate for Taiwan’s rights.
Ultimately, the organizing committee decided to remove the national flags of all participating countries and changed the name of Taiwan’s participation to “Chinese Taipei.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China emphasized that cultural exchanges such as music should transcend borders and remain apolitical. It was noted that in the past six years, Taiwan’s delegations have always participated under the name of “Taiwan.” However, the arbitrary intervention by China this year highlighted its blatant suppression of Taiwan’s international participation. The Ministry strongly condemned this action and expressed regret over the organizing committee’s submission to Chinese demands and unilateral alteration of Taiwan’s participation name.
In the face of Chinese pressure, the Taiwanese choir representatives, particularly the Kaohsiung Nivon Choir, displayed resilience and determination by winning the gold medal in the Tokyo Choir Competition. This victory showcases the steadfastness of the Taiwanese people, a sentiment echoed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in offering sincere congratulations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China reiterated that the Chinese suppression of Taiwan on the international stage has been ongoing and pervasive. Despite this, the ministry remains committed to defending Taiwan’s international space and actively enhancing exchanges and cooperation across various fields between Taiwan and Japan to foster greater support and understanding of the Republic of China among the Japanese populace.