The 107th birthday celebrations of the Republic of China (Taiwan) was held at the stylish Centurion Golf Estate Clubhouse on the 8th of October. Hundreds of guests turned out in their best evening finery to commemorate the significant day in Taiwanese history.
Representative Matthew Chou of the Taipei Liaison Office, said that he was especially honoured to be the Representative in South Africa during the centenary celebrations of the icon, Mr. Nelson Mandela. Representative Chou said this year in particular afforded everyone time to reflect on how they were continuing the great humanitarian and leader's legacy.
"South Africa and Taiwan both place significant value on democracy, equal rights and freedom. We cherish the principles of human dignity and rule of law, just as Mr. Mandela considered these values as the core of democracy," Representative Chou said
He further went on to say, "our two countries have spent many years in fulfilling and building on these aspirations, and while many have been achieved, there is still much work to do".
Representative Chou said that while the past year had been both challenging and rewarding, he was genuinely optimistic about bolstering mutually beneficial relations between Taiwan and South Africa.
Guests were treated to a mouth-watering array of Taiwanese food, fine wine and traditional Taiwanese performances by the Nan Hua Temple and the Pretoria Chinese School.
Representative Chou (third from right) and distinguished guests cut the cake at the 107th birthday celebrations of the Republic of China (Taiwan).