TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) praised Taiwan-Africa ties at a celebration event hosted by the Africa Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce (ATCC) on Tuesday (Sept. 24).
Lin said the ATCC has always been an important partner in Taiwan's efforts to expand economic diplomacy and deepen substantive relations with African countries, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
He noted that Taiwan’s strong ties with Africa have been built through the groundwork laid by ATCC. MOFA looks forward to continuing to leverage the rich resources of the organization and domestic and international businesses to enhance Taiwan’s visibility in Africa and across the globe, Lin said.
The foreign minister also pointed out that he has followed a comprehensive approach to diplomacy based on shared values, alliances, and economy.
Economic diplomacy, in particular, seeks to export Taiwan’s experiences to partner nations, introduce emerging concepts like carbon credits and AI, and promote local industrial development, Lin said. The concept of fostering prosperous allies will be a key focus of the ministry’s future endeavors in Africa, he said.
ATCC President Chen Chih-min (陳智敏) said he was happy to see Taiwanese businesspeople from all over Africa come together for the event. He hoped it would be a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and work toward bolstering Taiwan-Africa economic relations.
ATCC was founded in 1994 and includes members from countries, such as South Africa, Eswatini, and Nigeria. It has been a vital force in promoting Taiwan's economic diplomacy in Africa, MOFA said. The ministry pledged to maintain close contact with ATCC and continue supporting Taiwanese businesses eager to enter the African market and expand business opportunities.