Jaushieh Joseph Wu
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Republic of China (Taiwan)
September 21, 2022
(As Prepared for Delivery)
Ladies and gentlemen:
On behalf of the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), it is an honor for me to confer the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon on Her Excellency Neijon Rema Edwards, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. This award is granted in recognition of her invaluable contributions to strengthening the relations between our countries.
Since Taiwan and the Marshall Islands established diplomatic ties in 1998, our peoples have benefited immensely from the close friendship and productive partnership that exist between us. Bilateral exchanges were given a tremendous boost after the Marshall Islands set up its Embassy in Taipei in 1999.
Ambassador Edwards is a seasoned diplomat who has previously served as Chief of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Marshall Islands, Consul General of the Marshall Islands to Honolulu, and most recently Ambassador to the Republic of China (Taiwan). Her outstanding work in advancing bilateral ties is widely recognized and appreciated by the peoples of our countries.
Ambassador Edwards has been a faithful friend to Taiwan. Since her arrival in February 2019, she has worked tirelessly to deepen cooperation between Taiwan and the Marshall Islands, earning her the respect and admiration of her colleagues in the diplomatic community in Taipei.
Although Ambassador Edwards will soon be departing Taiwan, I want to assure you, Ambassador, that our friendship will go on. You are always welcome to visit us here in Taiwan, your home from home, anytime you wish.
Once again, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations and deep appreciation to you and wish you continued success and good health in the years to come. Thank you.