Tien, Chung-kwang
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs
Republic of China (Taiwan)
December 8, 2021
(As Prepared for Delivery)
Good evening!
It is an honor to take part in the opening of the 17th Taiwan European Film Festival. On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the EETO for organizing this meaningful event.
As a long-time sponsor of the film festival, we believe that this is an excellent way for people in Taiwan to learn more about Europe's diverse cultures and vibrant film industry. Over the past decade, this event has entertained more than 180,000 viewers, with each year presenting a new selection of movies for the public to discover.
This year, 16 films from 17 European countries will be shown on the streaming platform Joint Movies (想映電影院) free of charge. We are honored to support the festival, which has been growing in terms of diversity and outreach. This year's selection includes both recent movies and classic masterpieces, spanning a wide range of genres. These works will enlighten the audience and give them a better understanding of European cultures, languages, and history.
Taiwan and Europe have been facing unprecedented challenges due to the outbreak of COVID-19. The pandemic has caused countless difficulties and uncertainties, but we will surely prevail. As with the title of this year's opening film, Let There Be Light, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I sincerely hope that all countries can recover and get back on track soon.
Cultural exchanges like this one better the world by promoting mutual understanding and building consensus based on shared values. By connecting the peoples of Taiwan and Europe, this film festival helps consolidate our friendship and solidarity. I wish it great success and all of you a pleasant evening. Thank you.