TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs invited representatives from 24 diplomatic allies and partner countries to its Ghost Festival ceremony for the first time Wednesday.
Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) led ministry staff and foreign representatives in the ceremony, per CNA. The ministry said the event aimed to promote cultural exchange and strengthen ties with partner countries.
Representatives from 12 diplomatic allies and 12 other partner countries attended. The ceremony followed traditional customs and included offerings of flowers, fruit, meat, and other items.
Several participating countries also contributed food from their own cultures. Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines provided snacks, while the US contributed beer and Canada supplied maple syrup.
Saint Lucia, the Marshall Islands, Paraguay, Belize, and Eswatini were also among the countries that contributed offerings. The ministry said the mix of traditional Taiwanese offerings and foreign food added an international element to the ceremony, per UDN.
Lin gave attending representatives green packages of the Taiwanese snack brand Kuai Kuai printed with messages meaning “I’m super lucky” and “May the whole family be safe.” The gifts expressed wishes for safety, good fortune, and for things to go smoothly.
The ministry said the event gave foreign representatives a chance to experience a traditional Taiwanese custom while deepening mutual understanding. It added that continued exchanges with diplomatic allies and like-minded countries could strengthen cooperation and contribute to peace.
Kuai Kuai is a popular Taiwanese snack often placed near computers and other machines as a symbol of good luck. Green packages are believed to help equipment run smoothly and prevent problems.
