TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi (陳明祺) lauded NGOs as a key force in expanding Taiwan’s international participation on Saturday.

Speaking at the foreign ministry’s NGO International Affairs Talent Training Program, Chen said Taiwan’s NGOs also advance global development and human well-being, per the foreign ministry. They are the government’s best partners in advancing national diplomatic efforts, Chen said. Their flexibility and rapid responsiveness embody the spirit of “Taiwan Can Help” and the values of “Team Taiwan.”

NGOs have long collaborated with international organizations in areas such as public health and medical care, humanitarian assistance, environmental protection, cultural exchange, and sustainable development, Chen added. 

The deputy minister pointed out that Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) has been promoting integrated diplomacy since he took office, which emphasizes interagency cooperation, public-private partnerships, and whole-of-society participation. Chen said Lin also encouraged the concept that “everyone is a diplomat” in helping broaden Taiwan’s international space.

Since 2004, the foreign ministry has organized the NGO International Affairs Talent Training Program to help domestic NGO professionals understand global trends and strengthen their international affairs expertise.