President Tsai Ing-wen said June 23 that she will continue promoting policies aimed at empowering women in Taiwan and throughout the Indo-Pacific so as to enable all members of society share in the fruits of prosperity.
 
As the first female president of Taiwan, ensuring women’s empowerment remains a central plank in the government’s policymaking platform is a top priority, Tsai said. This has paid dividends as illustrated by a raft of measures enhancing women’s labor participation rate and encouraging more females to re-enter the workforce or start their own businesses, she added.
 
Tsai made the remarks while opening the international conference of the Pan-Pacific and Southeast Asia Women’s Association June 23 in New Taipei City. Taking place in Taiwan for the first time in the 91-year history of the triennial event, the six-day conference involves representatives from 11 PPSEAWA chapters.
 
According to Tsai, the government is committed to addressing key issues concerned with women and families while promoting peaceful lives for all. This dovetails with PPSEAWA’s Mission Statement, and demonstrates the potential for Taiwan to contribute even more in supporting the Hawaii-based nongovernmental organization’s good work, she said.
 
One high-profile example, Tsai said, is her participation in the Pacific Women Leaders’ Coalition Conference hosted by Indo-Pacific ally the Marshall Islands in March. Both countries are collaborating on various gender equality initiatives in tandem with like-minded partner the U.S. to great effect, she added.
 
Another is Taiwan’s Long-term Care Plan 2.0., Tsai said, adding that its overarching goals echo the theme of the conference: “Life’s Journey to Well-being.”
 
Overseen by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the 10-year plan seeks to establish a comprehensive care system promoting aging in place—the ability to live safely and independently in one’s home or community regardless of age, ability or income level.
 
Tsai said it is hoped participants will take full advantage of the conference to share insights on this important issue, as well as related topics like improving access for women to financial decision-making and literacy programs. (SFC-E)

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