The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Boston (TECO-Boston) held a series of on-line events to celebrate the National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in lieu of its annual in-person National Day reception due to the COVID-19 pandemic this year. These on-line celebrations attracted many of Taiwan’s supporters from across New England to participate. In addition, the flag of the Republic of China (Taiwan) was also raised at Boston City Hall which symbolizes Boston’s friendship with Taiwan.
TECO-Boston’s on-line events consisted of congratulatory videos (October 9-31) posted on Facebook by politicians, scholars, and Taiwanese-American leaders from New England, including, in part, Senator Ed Markey (D-MA), U.S. Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA), Chair of the House Rules Committee, and Lori Trahan (D-MA), Boston Mayor Martin Walsh, Rhode Island Lt. Governor Daniel McKee, Vermont Lt. Governor David Zuckerman, Maine Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap, Maine Senate President Troy Jackson, and New Hampshire House Speaker Steve Shurtleff.
A brief video clip from Director-General Jonathan Sun noted that Taiwan-U.S. relations are currently at their best. “We deeply appreciate the longstanding support and friendship from the U.S. government and people and are eager to further strengthen cooperation in all aspects,” he said, “between Taiwan and the U.S., especially for a potential Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) which can increase trade and create job opportunities.”
U.S. Senators and Representatives, Governors, Speakers of various States House of Representatives, and mayors of Boston, Newton, Worcester, Quincy (MA); Central Falls, Pawtucket, Cranston (RI); and Manchester (NH) all congratulated the celebration of the National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan) by sending proclamations and citations.
A virtual 2020 Taiwan Film Festival organized by the Taiwan Film Festival of Boston and sponsored by TECO-Boston was held also to celebrate the Republic of China (Taiwan) National Day. The documentary “Run for Dream” which features Taiwanese ultramarathoner Tommy Chen demonstrates the perseverance, bravery, and spirit of the Taiwanese people. The race in Chile aired from October 9 (Friday), 3:00 p.m. EDT to October 12 (Monday), 2:59 a.m. EDT.
Once again, TECO-Boston expresses its sincere gratitude for the friendship rendered by our friends in New England. We are committed to strengthening relations between Taiwan and New England. An on-line prize-drawing for the celebration is also being held until October 16 by TECO-Boston. Details can be found at our “Taiwan in Boston” Facebook page.
