New Southbound Policy Portal

Vice President Lai Ching-te delivers opening remarks at a sustainability forum and awards ceremony Oct. 13 in Taipei City. (Courtesy of the Presidential Office)
 

The government is promoting sustainable development at home and abroad as part of Taiwan’s obligations as a responsible member of the international community, according to Vice President Lai Ching-te Oct. 13.

Taiwan’s drive to realize the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals demonstrates the government’s nonnegotiable stance on tackling global challenges such as climate change, Lai said. This commitment, as well as related policies and measures, will also spur industry transformation, he added.

Lai made the remarks while opening of a Taipei City-staged sustainability forum and awards ceremony in which enterprises and individuals from across Taiwan are recognized for contributions to advancing the SDGs.

Other high-profile participants included Tsai Chi-chang, vice president of the Legislative Yuan, and Eugene Chien, ambassador at large and president and chairman of Taiwan Institute for Sustainable Energy.

According to Lai, the government is leaving no stone unturned in promoting sustainable development. On Earth Day this year, President Tsai Ing-wen reaffirmed the government’s objective of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, he said, adding that the Cabinet has also approved directives requiring all government agencies to meet the target.

Prior to presenting businesses and individuals with sustainability action and outstanding youth awards, Lai took the opportunity to express his gratitude. Without the involvement of these socially minded and responsible participants, sustainable development will not be realized, he said. (DL-E)