Deputy Director Zhang Junyu of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York is set to be reassigned back to Taiwan. On July 14th, the overseas Chinese community in New York held a farewell banquet in Flushing, where fellow overseas compatriots performed classic songs such as “Friends” and “Blessings,” creating a lively and heartwarming atmosphere.
Zhang Junyu was appointed as the Deputy Director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York in July 2018, serving in this position for about six years. He has previously worked in departments such as the Bureau of Consular Affairs, the European Division, and the North American Division. During his time in New York, he actively engaged with the traditional overseas Chinese communities in the greater New York area and Taiwanese community organizations, and made diligent efforts in United Nations affairs, wholeheartedly promoting Taiwan’s diplomatic efforts and striving to enhance Taiwan’s visibility in the eastern United States. In an interview, Zhang Junyu stated that he will return to Taiwan in two weeks to serve in the Secretariat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“Over these six years, I feel very honored and grateful. New York has been a great professional experience for me,” Zhang Junyu expressed in his speech. He highlighted the successful collaborations with colleagues and compatriots at the economic and cultural office in New York, including organizing events for the visits of the President and Vice President, advancing UN initiatives, hosting National Day receptions, all of which contributed to representing the Republic of China and speaking up for Taiwan, attributing these achievements to the support of many overseas compatriots in New York.
The jurisdiction served by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York includes New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania. Deputy Director Zhang Junyu mentioned that during the busiest times of diplomatic duties, he would spend weekends visiting eight overseas Chinese communities or engaging in official activities, often participating in events until the very end.
“Why was I able to do this? It’s because I have a supportive wife. Thanks to her, I can find joy in all of this,” Zhang Junyu expressed his gratitude to his wife for helping him manage various household matters along the way.
“I remember a line from the award-winning film ‘Life of Pi’ by director Ang Lee, ‘Life is a series of goodbyes.’ Especially after spending 2,200 days over six years and getting to know so many good friends, saying goodbye is truly not easy. In two weeks, I will leave with a heart full of gratitude and many wonderful memories. I want to take this opportunity to offer my most sincere blessings to our community friends present here,” Zhang Junyu concluded.