The global spread of Covid-19 in 2020 has severely impacted global economic development and human security. However, in our currently tumultu­ous world, the announcement of the 4th Tang Prizes is encouraging news, especially as the Tang Prize in Rule of Law was for the first time awarded to three non-governmental organizations, based in Bangladesh, Lebanon, and Colombia.

Taiwan will donate US$200,000 in disaster relief to the Philippines following Typhoon Vamco, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Nov. 13.

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.

On November 16, the final workshop held under the APEC Women-Led Start-Up Accelerator Initiative was hosted in Taipei. More than 60 participants from the APEC region participated in this grand event, contributing to Asia-Pacific Start-Up connection and development through this virtual workshop. Despite of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, this event contributed to the empowerment of women entrepreneurs in the field of access to capital and market.

The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 has further demonstrated to the international community the need for Taiwan’s participation in global disease prevention mechanisms. Through the joint efforts of the government and civil society, Taiwan’s bid to participate in the World Health Assembly this year has once again received unprecedented global support.

The 25th Taiwan-Australia Joint Energy and Minerals, Trade and Investment Cooperation Consultations was held Nov. 12 via videoconference, reflecting the like-minded partners’ commitment to bolstering mutually beneficial ties, according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs.