Sincere thanks to MPP Ernie Hardeman for making a commemorative statement and hosting a reception on the 180th anniversary of George Leslie Mackay's birth on March 21. Director-General Chen and representatives from the Taiwanese community were invited to attend and were warmly welcomed by MPPs of all parties.
MPP Hardeman expressed the importance of supporting Taiwan and emphasized that deepening economic and trade cooperation is the best way forward. He highlighted the Investment Promotion and Protection Arragement signed last year will facilitate bilateral industrial cooperation. Both Canada and Taiwan are committed to upholding the rules-based international order and supporting peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
D-G Chen emphasized Taiwan's commitment to be a force for good in the world by assisting other countries, including ongoing support for Ukraine, and providing assistance to Turkey after the earthquake. She called for like-minded countries to unite in supporting Taiwan, resisting economic coercion from authoritarian regimes and ensuring that the international order remains intact. She expressed hope that during Canada's chairmanship of the CPTPP this year, there will be concrete progress on Taiwan's accession to the agreement, and encouraged the Ontario government to establish a trade office in Taiwan to further deepen economic and trade exchanges and cooperation between the two sides.
