Jaushieh Joseph Wu
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Republic of China (Taiwan)
July 19, 2023
(As Prepared for Delivery)
Good morning!
It is a great honor to be here at the 2023 Pacific Climate Change Forum. We are here today because of our shared commitment to addressing one of the greatest challenges of our time—climate change.
The Pacific region has long been at the forefront of the battle against climate change. Nations in this region are home to vibrant cultures, diverse ecosystems, and resilient communities. But we are also among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Our very existence is being threatened by rising sea levels, extreme weather, and ocean acidification.
On Earth Day 2021, President Tsai Ing-wen announced Taiwan’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The blueprint to reach this goal was mapped out in Taiwan’s Pathway to Net-Zero Emissions in 2050, which was published by the National Development Council. And this February, Taiwan implemented the Climate Change Response Act, making Taiwan the 18th country in the world to write this goal into law.
To make this goal a reality, Taiwan shall stand in solidarity with our allies and international partners. We hope that today’s event and joint statement will help bolster the resilience of our brothers and sisters as they combat climate change in the Pacific region.
This forum is a platform for us to amplify our voices, join our efforts, and consolidate our resources. Unity and collaboration is what we need to effectively address this global crisis. Let us embrace a just and inclusive approach that leaves no one behind, so that we can journey toward a sustainable future together.
I am confident that today’s discussions and the connections made at this event will set the stage for transformative action. I wish the 2023 Pacific Climate Change Forum every success. Thank you!