To celebrate US National Day, the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) - Kaohsiung Branch Office hosted a banquet today (June 26). This was also the last event Chief Robert DeWitt hosted during his time in office as he will be retiring and returning to the States soon. Mayor William Lai attended the banquet and expressed his best wishes for the 241st anniversary of the United States of America. He also thanked the US for their continuous assistance to Taiwan. Mayor Lai further remarked that if it was not for the US’s constant support, Taiwan would not be able to achieve what we have achieved today in terms of economy, democracy, freedom and human rights.
During his remarks, the Mayor mentioned that the cross-strait relationship has become more and more tense recently. US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has expressed in Congress that the US intends to keep all of its commitments to Taiwan. The United States will not forsake Taiwan and will do their best to ensure the economic and military stability in the cross-strait region. This fully shows the American support of Taiwan. Mayor Lai reiterated that Taiwan is the best partner of the US in the Asia-Pacific region and hope to collaborate with countries such as Japan and Korea to safeguard the peace in the area.
Mayor Lai also expressed his gratitude towards the two American representatives here in Taiwan for their contributions to and frequent interactions with Tainan. He mentioned that AIT Director Kin Moy’s family chose Tainan as their first family trip destination, which successfully promoted the city and its tourism. And Chief DeWitt played a crucial role in promoting English language education in Tainan and making English Tainan’s second official language. DeWitt also introduced Tainan’s tourist spots on ICRT programs, letting more people know about Tainan.
DeWitt, who will be leaving the post soon, also shared his thoughts on working in Taiwan. He mentioned his experiences during the 2014 Kaohsiung Gas Explosions and the 2016 Tainan Earthquake, and saw how the people of Southern Taiwan effectively rebuilt and resumed their daily lives after these obstacles. He was also honored to witness the third peaceful transition of power in Taiwan, and was impressed by the wisdom and grace of Taiwan’s democratic environment.
Director Moy traveled south specifically for this event. Moy affirmed that the relationship between Taiwan and the US is strong, and that both sides have frequent interactions and has worked together to solve many challenges. Taiwan and the US are crucial partners to one other. He also pointed out that Chief DeWitt has traveled extensively around the world and made many contributions. Moy acted on behalf of the United States Department of State and acknowledged DeWitt’s outstanding achievements in this area and thanked his contributions to diplomacy.
After the remarks, a vocalist performed the national anthem of the United States of America, and all the guests toasted and wished the US a happy birthday. Presidential Office Senior Advisor Chang Chun-hsiung, Kaohsiung City Mayor Chen Chu, Kaohsiung City Council Speaker Kang Yu-cheng, Pingtung County Deputy Magistrate Wu Li-hsueh, and MOFA Southern Taiwan Office Director General Chen Borshow were also present at the event.