On 3rd May 2017, Representative Tu was invited to visit Co. Waterford to discuss bilateral relations, cultural exchange, scientific cooperation and business and travel opportunities in Taiwan with local politicians and entrepreneurs. Co. Waterford is famous for its medieval port and has a population of approximately 80,000, with a rich history and vibrant cultural scene.
Representative Tu was invited to address the Waterford Chamber and also met with Mr. Gerard Hurley; the Chamber’s Chief Executive Officer, and local politicians, scholars and dignitaries including former Leader of the Senate; Mr. Maurice Cummins. Representative Tu expressed his hope that Waterford’s business, tourism and education sectors could all strengthen their cooperation with Taiwan.
Representative Tu further spoke of Taiwan’s progressive, democratic society and strong rule of law. The bilateral trade volume between Ireland and Taiwan has now reached €700 million (a 17% increase on previous years) making Ireland Taiwan’s 12th largest trading partner in the European Union. There is already strong cooperation between the ICT sectors in Waterford and Taiwan, while there is also potential for Waterford’s other industries including the Glanbia milk plant and local whiskey distilleries, to tap into large demand in the Taiwanese market for these products. Following the meeting, academics from Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) expressed their interest in cooperating with universities and institutes in Taiwan. Waterford Chamber representative Mr. Daniel Farinha also remarked that his company is currently importing products from Taiwan and stated that he hoped this cooperation would continue well-into the future.
Representative Tu also paid a courtesy call to Waterford City & County Council to meet with local VIP politicians to promote bilateral municipal cooperation. The Council warmly welcomed Representative Tu’s words and expressed their desire for future cooperation with Taiwan and indeed even a future visit to the country.
To finish the visit, Representative Tu toured the world-famous Waterford Crystal factory to learn first-hand about Waterford’s local industries. The company’s beautiful hand-made crystal is renowned for its quality and celebrity admirers. Representative Tu advise company representatives of the popular demand in Taiwan for crystal products and hope that both could pursue cooperation in the future.
Photo Caption 1: Representative Tu speaking to members of the Waterford Chamber, scholars, and local politicians about bilateral economic relations
Photo Caption 2: Representative Tu with former Leader of the Senate Mr. Maurice Cummins (right) and the Chief Executive Officer of Waterford Chamber; Mr. Gerard Hurley (centre)
Photo Caption 3: Representative Tu exchanging gifts with Waterford Crystal Co. during his tour.
