Taiwan eyes expanded tie-ups with NGOs

2015-02-06

Taiwan is seeking further opportunities to work with nongovernmental organizations spanning a broad range of charitable initiatives and raise the country’s profile on the international stage, according to Minister of Foreign Affairs David Lin Feb. 4.

“The government is a committed provider of humanitarian aid through solid partnerships forged with Taiwan’s NGOs and the global community,” Lin said. “We plan to take these cooperative relationships to the next level.”

Lin made the remarks at an NGO event at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Taipei City.

According to the minister, soft power as promoted by NGOs is key to growing Taiwan’s footprint abroad, with 2014 marking a fruitful year of achievement. “These organizations delivered results in such fields as arts and culture, gender equality, humanitarian concerns, medical care, sport and youth exchanges.

“They also succeeded in expanding Taiwan’s international space and flew the flag with honor to the nation.”

Some of the country’s most effective NGOs in this regard were honored by Lin at the event. These include Bliss and Wisdom Charitable Foundation, ROC Red Cross Society, Rotary International District 3520, SimplyHelp Foundation, Taiwan Alliance in International Development, Taiwan Health Corps, Taiwan Kiwanis of Children Foundation and Taiwanese Women’s Entrepreneurs Association.

Going forward, Lin said the government is eyeing more collaborative tie-ups with NGOs so as to advance disaster relief and humanitarian aid around the globe. “We hope to achieve even more in 2015 and ensure Taiwan lends a helping hand to those most in need.”

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=227177&CtNode=413)