Belize sends well-wishes on Taiwan National Day

By Aaron Humes: A host of prominent Belizeans joined Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Remus Li-Kuo Chen, in recognizing the island nation’s 109th National Day, otherwise known as Double Tenth Day, and the establishment of Belize-ROC relations two days later on Pan American Day, October 12.

The date recognizes the 1911 founding of the Republic, which at one point ruled all of what today is the People’s Republic of China.

In a social media video, Ambassador Chen said that while there would be no celebrations in person due to COVID-19, the Embassy wanted to thank all concerned for “your staunch support and genuine friendship on this most auspicious occasion of the year.”

The Ambassador also made time to thank Belize for helping Taiwan gain a foothold in the international community, allowing it to demonstrate its commitment to fighting shared ills and bolstering the democratic link between nations. In turn, he promised, Taiwan would continue to be Belize’s most trusted ally, and quoted this year’s September Celebrations theme: “Overcoming adversity, creating opportunity, [let’s] unite for prosperity.”

The representative of the Crown, Governor-General Sir Colville Young conveyed that “[Taiwan]’s joy is Belize’s joy” on this occasion, as we continue to share values of democracy, freedom, territorial integrity, commitment to economic development, and respect for natural beauty and the environment.

Prime Minister Dean Barrow on behalf of the Executive sent his “heartfelt congratulations,” adding: “Taiwan’s model of democracy and development is world-famous and justly so. Notwithstanding its geopolitical challenges, Taiwan has been able to establish itself as a beacon of enlightenment. It has brought great progress to its people and has been at the forefront of global technological advances,” citing it’s keeping COVID-19 largely at bay as an example.

The P.M. said Belize is proud to call Taiwan a friend – one long-standing and durable.

Leader-elect of the United Democratic Party (UDP) and Minister of Education Patrick Faber recalled his visit last year on National Day 2019 and pledged full support for its attainment of its rightful place internationally and a continued partnership between the countries.

From the Opposition, Leader John Briceño cited educational and cultural exchanges with Belizean students and the visitors who made their home and businesses here.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred Elrington, emphasized the importance he said Belize attaches to its friendship with Taiwan and his hope of cooperation extending even further.

Representing the Legislature were outgoing Speaker of the House Laura Longsworth and President of the Senate Darrell Bradley, while outgoing mayor of the City of Belmopan Khalid Belisle stood in for the municipal bodies.

From Belize’s Taiwanese community, leaders Alex Chang, Fred Shyu, and Ramon Tseng spoke in Mandarin, asking that all be safe and secure in observing the National Day here and on the island. There were also appearances from Ted Tejada of the Hotel Association and five Belizean nurses training on Taiwan.

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