Belize Joins Taiwan in Celebrating 114th National Day

The Republic of China (Taiwan) is marking a major milestone, its hundred and fourteenth National Day and Belize is right there celebrating alongside them. On Wednesday night, the Taiwan Embassy rolled out the red carpet at the Biltmore for a vibrant National Day event. The room was filled with invited guests from government and across different sectors, all coming together to honor this special occasion. Meanwhile, nine thousand miles away, Governor General Froyla Tzalam is representing Belize at the official celebrations in Taiwan. Back here at home, News Five’s Paul Lopez was at the Biltmore soaking in the festivities. Here’s his report.

 

Paul Lopez, Reporting

After thirty-six years of diplomatic relations, Taiwan has proven to be one of Belize’s strongest allies on the global stage. So much so that on September twenty-sixth, before global leaders at the UN General Assembly, Prime Minister John Briceno urged Taiwan’s inclusion.

 

Prime Minister John Briceño

“Taiwan already contributes to the SDGs assisting partners with advanced technology. We therefore urge United Nations to find appropriate ways to recognize Taiwan as an indispensable partner in our shared pursuit of sustainable development.”

 

Taiwan’s Ambassador to Belize made the prime minister’s UN address a focal point of her speech during the 114^th National Day celebrations on Thursday night at the Biltmore.

 

Ambassador Lily Li-Wen Hsu, The Republic of China (Taiwan)

“Well you know we put Prime Minister John Briceno’s statement on Facebook and this is the most reached one. You can tell right away how people appreciate when our friends on the international stage speak up for us.”

 

Cordel Hyde, Deputy Prime Minister

“That is a big deal and they appreciate it. Like I said, they don’t ask for much so when we are able to do that on the international stage for them, speak up on their behalf. That is what they want most of all. And that is easy for us because of the nature of the relationship over the long years. That is easy for us. Thirty-six years have been a long time.”

 

Wednesday night’s celebration wasn’t short on big names. Deputy Prime Minister Cordel Hyde took center stage with the keynote address on behalf of the Government of Belize. And he wasn’t alone, several Cabinet ministers, government officials, and leaders from across different sectors filled the room. Former Belize Ambassador to Taiwan, Dr. Candice Pitts, received a special recognition for her contributions. And that’s not all, three young, talented Belizeans were also honored after winning spots in Taiwan’s Fifty-Sixth World School Children’s Art Exhibition.

 

Ambassador Lily Li-Wen Hsu

“Just like friends, when you celebrate your birthday, you like to be with your good friends. So, here we celebrate our double ten, our national day and I feel very heartwarming because everywhere I go people say happy double ten. It means that people know what day it is. That shows how strong our bond is. So, it is very meaningful to celebrate our national day here with our friends.”

Belize and Taiwan share more than strong diplomatic ties, they both face challenges to their sovereignty. Belize is recognized as an independent nation, yet Guatemala continues to claim its territory. Taiwan runs its own government, but global recognition is limited due to pressure from China.

 

Cordel Hyde

“They have been a symbol of great stability, great pride, great self-confidence. They have been really balanced in the face of clear and present danger. They have really shown countries like us how to be in the face of those challenges. Our situation is unique in many ways. But we have to learn from them. Despite the challenges that surround them, they consistently bat and hit above their weight.”

Leader of the Opposition Tracy Panton and her UDP colleagues were also invited guests on Thursday night.

 

Tracy Panton, Leader of the Opposition

“Well we have had a long-standing relationship with Taiwan, both political administration as you are aware. So, it is really important for us to be here to show our appreciation for the friendship, for the partnership, for the support that they have given to both administration.”

 

Former Governor General Sir Colville Young was also a special invited guest, while Governor General Froyla Tzalam is in Taiwan to attend their National Day celebrations.  Reporting for News Five, I am Paul Lopez.