New Southbound Policy Portal

Foreign Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu (third row, fifth right) is joined by officials, business representatives, expatriates and students during a Diwali celebratory function Nov. 13 at historic Taipei Guest House. (MOFA)

 

A celebratory function for Diwali—the Hindu Festival of Lights—was staged Nov. 13 at historic Taipei Guest House, underscoring the growing friendship between Taiwan and New Southbound Policy target country India.

Organized by Taipei India Music and Culture Organization and Indians in Taiwan, the event attracted around 200 officials, business representatives, expatriates and students. High-profile participants included Jaushieh Joseph Wu, minister of foreign affairs; Wu Yu-chin, chairwoman of the Taiwan-India Parliamentary Friendship Association; Gourangalal Das, director general of the India-Taipei Association; and Kish Harkishin, president of the Indians’ Association of Taipei.

Foreign Minister Wu, who said during his welcome address he hopes more friends from India will call Taiwan home, conveyed President Tsai Ing-wen’s sincere hope for the two democracies to continue cooperating in creating a brighter future.

Das responded by stating it is the wish of the people of India for the festival to bring peace and joy to Taiwan.

In a tweet on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Twitter account, Wu said “Happy #Diwali to #India & all friends around the world from the great fellow democracy. It’s awesome that I’m one of YOU tonight in #Taiwan. We’re #StrongerTogether! #Namaste. JW”

According to organizers, the function featured traditional art forms like rangoli, Bollywood-style music and dance performances, henna body painting and cuisine such as chana masala—Tsai’s favorite dish from the subcontinent.

Starting Nov. 12, the five-day Diwali festival marks the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. For many Indians, it is the beginning of the new year when they pay tribute to Laxmi, the Goddess of Wealth, by lighting decorative oil lamps. (YCH-E)