Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang addresses participants in the Taiwan Study Program for Future Leaders from the Indo-Pacific Region at the event’s closing ceremony Dec. 18 in Taipei City. (MOFA)
 

The 2023 Taiwan Study Program for Future Leaders from the Indo-Pacific Region wrapped up Dec. 18 in Taipei City, underscoring government commitment to develop the region’s next generation of personnel.

Organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the seven-day event welcomed 42 attendees from 18 countries including Australia, Nauru, Marshall Islands, New Zealand, Palau and Tuvalu. Topics spanned a range of areas including Taiwan’s policies on climate change, democracy, diplomacy and human rights, as well as the country’s green technology industry.

In addition to attending keynote speeches and group discussions, participants visited the Presidential Office, National Palace Museum and Beitou Refuse Incineration Plant in Taipei, and Taipower D/S One, a venue operated by state-run utility Taiwan Power Co. in New Taipei City that provides interactive experience to enhance public awareness of green energy.

During the closing ceremony, Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang encouraged participants to safeguard universal values of freedom, democracy and respect for human rights, and apply the results of their learning after returning to their respective countries. He expressed hope that attendees will enhance relationships between Taiwan and their home countries and serve as a force in promoting regional cooperation and development.

Tien also took the opportunity to thank Indo-Pacific allies and like-minded partners for supporting Taiwan’s bid to join international organizations like the World Health Organization.

Launched in 2009, the annual leadership program provides attendees with a rounded understanding of Taiwan and seeks to deepen friendships with the country’s regional partners. It was suspended from 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resumed this year. (YCH-E)