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AIT Director Raymond Greene Delivers Talk at NSYSU: Highlighting the Importance of Taiwan's Global Connections

2024-12-12

(Provided by the Office of International Affairs) National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) had the honor of hosting Raymond Greene, Director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), for a talk titled "Connecting Taiwan: Why Taiwan's International Ties Matter for the World." The event included a dynamic Q&A session, during which Greene explored the themes of "people-to-peopleTies," "economic connectivity," and "expanding Taiwan's international space." He emphasized that Taiwan's democratic development is its most attractive characteristic, observed growing confidence among the Taiwanese people, and encouraged youth to pursue careers in diplomacy to advocate for their nation.

Greene provided a detailed analysis of Taiwan's geopolitical significance, economic strengths, and democratic values, reaffirming the strong and enduring U.S.-Taiwan partnership and Taiwan's vital role on the global stage. NSYSU President Dr. Chih-Peng Li, Senior Vice President Dr. Chih-Wen Kuo, and Vice President for International Affairs Dr. Ming-Hsuan Lee welcome Director Greene to the campus. The talk attracted nearly 200 participants, including professionals from academia, industry, and local government, as well as local and international students and faculty.

In his opening remarks, President Li emphasized the university's critical role as a leading academic institution in southern Taiwan in promoting global connections. He highlighted the longstanding partnership between NSYSU and AIT, including the Sun Yat-sen American Center, which has promoted cultural and academic exchanges, such as English speech competitions in collaboration with the AIT Kaohsiung Branch. These efforts have significantly deepened U.S.-Taiwan ties.

Greene described Taiwan as a critical transportation and economic hub in the Asia-Pacific region, using the semiconductor industry as a prime example of its high-tech capabilities. He emphasized that Taiwan not only supports the global technology sector but also ensures the stability of international supply chains.

Highlighting Taiwan's democratic resilience, autonomy, and role as an international exemplar, Greene noted that Taiwan's free, diverse society and innovative spirit position it as a model for global cooperation and an attractive partner for like-minded nations.

Greene identified education and technological innovation as core areas for strengthening U.S.-Taiwan relations. He highlighted existing initiatives such as the U.S.-Taiwan Education Initiative, the Fulbright Program, and the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), as well as a recent agreement signed by the University Academic Alliance in Taiwan (UAAT). These efforts aim to foster talent and enhance research collaboration in areas such as semiconductors, quantum technology, AI, and sustainability.

Praising Taiwanese youth for their innovation and global perspective, Greene advocated for increased student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and academia-industry collaborations to nurture future leaders.

On economic partnerships, Greene emphasized the complementarity between Taiwan's high-tech industries and the U.S.'s financial and market strengths. He noted ongoing efforts to enhance trade relations, address cybersecurity threats, and tackle issues like double taxation through agreements such as the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade and the Economic Prosperity Partnership Dialogue.

Discussing Taiwan's international space, Greene reaffirmed U.S. support for Taiwan's meaningful participation in global organizations, whether as an observer or in other appropriate capacities. He stressed the importance of Taiwan's engagement in solving global challenges and fostering international cooperation.

During the Q&A session, moderated by NSYSU's Vice President for International Affairs, Dr. Ming-Hsuan Lee, Greene addressed Taiwan's challenges in international engagement, particularly restrictions imposed by China. He urged Taiwan to leverage its technological edge and shared democratic values to expand its global presence.

Greene assured attendees that bipartisan support in the U.S. ensures the stability of U.S.-Taiwan relations despite potential shifts in American politics. He encouraged Taiwan to continue building its strengths and pursuing substantive interactions with non-diplomatic partners.

Greene concluded by inspiring young attendees to consider careers in diplomacy. Sharing his journey of becoming a diplomat, he acknowledged the challenges of bilingual education but emphasized its long-term benefits.

He also praised Taiwan's achievements in human rights, multiculturalism, and openness, describing the nation's democratic development as a global exemplar. Greene noted a growing sense of confidence among Taiwanese people, which, combined with a deep love for their homeland, forms a solid foundation for Taiwan's progress and unique position on the global stage.

Through his insightful analysis and constructive recommendations, Greene's talk not only deepened the audience's understanding of Taiwan's international potential but also reinforced the importance of continued U.S. support for Taiwan.

(Edited by Public Affairs Division)
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