Representative Lyushun Shen of the Taipei Representative Office in the United Kingdom and Mrs. Shen hosted a reception in celebration of the 102nd Anniversary of the National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan) on October 9 at 6:30 p.m. at the Gladstone Library at Whitehall Place, London.
Around 500 guests, including Baroness Hooper, Deputy Speaker of the House of Lords, Rt. Hon. Dawn Primarolo MP and Rt. Hon. Lindsay Hoyle MP, Deputy Speakers of the House of Commons, Lord Faulkner, co-chair of the British-Taiwanese APPG, as well as diplomatic, cultural, academic and business circles attended this year’s reception.
We have received quite a few congratulations and thank-you messages following our national day reception; a number of excerpts are listed below.
“I was motivated to read about your nation’s rich history post 16th Century before attending – this gave me a much better understanding of where the Republic of China is today and the cause for your ‘Double Ten Day’ celebration, which you so happily shared with us…I had absolutely no idea of the Chinese involvement and help provided to the beleaguered British Armed Forces in Burma until last Wednesday evening…I wish the Taiwanese peoples continued happiness and prosperity – and continued and ever deepening friendship with the British.” - D.R.C.
“It is particularly pleasing for me to see that you enjoy support of so many Englishmen of a character who do not melt away in the face of difficulties.” – A.J.C.
“I hope all your British guests in the room appreciated the importance of what you said, and that your remarks were as much looking forward as with an essential historical perspective. I hope we all understand the importance of relationships, and that there is always more to be done. ” – R.C.
“The presentation and speeches were both moving and relevant and I commend you very highly for the delivery and result. It is always a pleasure to attend.” – M.H.
“It was a most enjoyable evening and I met many interesting people as well as old acquaintances. Your hospitality was excellent and the information provided about the links and co-operation between our two countries in the past was most interesting. As you may be aware I have fostered such co-operation for many years and will continue to do so.” – L.H.
“I was delighted to experience Chinese culture and hospitality as well as I was pleased to make contacts with wonderful people, with whom I hope to work further in the future.” – L.M.
“Your presentation was most interesting. Its references to Taiwanese culture and history – and the importance of reflecting on the past and present–were of particular significance to us.” – H.W.
“My very sincere thanks to you for a lovely evening.” – P.S.
We also hereby attach the relevant reports and pictures appeared in the local Chinese newspapers.
We would, in turn, like to thank all those who attended the reception, contributing to the evening’s success.
For those of you who have yet to visit Taiwan, we hope that the reception roused your interest in doing so!
