On National Heroes Day, Ambassador Fiona Huei-chun Fan was invited to attend the Wreath Laying Ceremony for Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer in the morning, and the Greiggs Heritage Festival in the afternoon, on March 14 2024.
In the Wreath Laying Ceremony, Governor General, Dame Susan Dougan, Prime Minister, Hon. Ralph Gonsalves, Members of Parliament, Diplomatic corps, officers from governmental sectors and indigenous representatives attended the event. In remarks, the distinguished guests expressed their appreciation to the sacrifices made by indigenous ancestors.
In the Greiggs Heritage Festival, the Greiggs Garifuna Council successfully transformed the field into an indigenous village, and the event attracted over 1,000 attendees. On behalf of R.O.C. government, Ambassador Fan paid tribute to Chief Joseph Chatoyer, and expressed that the National Heroes Day is a profound acknowledgement of sacrifices and triumphs that have shaped Garifuna and SVG unique identity, adding that Taiwan also possesses rich heritage of indigenous culture, with the nationally recognized indigenous groups about 567,000 people or 2% of Taiwan’s population. 16 tribes are officially recognized by government. Ambassador Fan said that the Embassy also set up a booth to display Taiwan’s indigenous attires, hoping attendees to have a deeper understanding about our shared values. In closing, she encouraged to embrace this opportunity to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Taiwan and St. Vincent and grenadines.
