In the wake of the indictment of Sun Wen, communication between the New York State government and Taiwan’s diplomatic offices has been reestablished. On the evening of October 3, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York hosted its 113th National Day reception at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. This event drew representatives from several friendly nations, along with officials from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, as well as members from various Chinese-American community organizations. Notably, New York Governor Kathy Hochul sent a representative to deliver her congratulatory message.

During the event, Director Li Zhiqiang of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office reflected on his 26 years in diplomatic service, emphasizing the enduring alliance between the U.S. and Taiwan, as well as the substantial progress made in their relationship. He highlighted key moments from the past year related to U.S.-Taiwan interactions and expressed gratitude for the bipartisan support Taiwan has received in the U.S. Li underlined President Lai Ching-te’s diplomatic approach, which focuses on fortifying ties with nations that share democratic values, peace, and prosperity.

Chairman Zhu Chaoran of the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association spoke about the organization’s historical ties to Dr. Sun Yat-sen, reiterating its steadfast support for the Republic of China (Taiwan). Su Chunhuai, Chairman of the Taiwan Association, also addressed the audience, stating that overseas compatriots have consistently supported Taiwan, driven by a shared commitment to uphold a free and democratic society that respects human rights.

Carlos Fuller, the Permanent Representative of Belize to the United Nations, remarked on Taiwan’s crucial role on the global stage, expressing concern over its exclusion from the UN. He argued that the UN system, established in the 1940s, no longer accommodates the diverse interests of today’s world and is in need of reform.

Hope Knight, Chair of Empire State Development, attended the reception on behalf of Governor Hochul. She noted that New York is home to the second-largest Taiwanese diaspora in the United States and emphasized the state’s long-standing and dynamic relationship with Taiwan. New York State Senator Brian Kavanagh, who represents Chinatown, was also in attendance, along with delegates from State Senator John Liu and Assemblymember Yuh-Line Niou, who presented awards to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in recognition of its contributions. Additionally, letters of congratulations were sent from prominent officials, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Representative Gregory Meeks, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, and more than ten others.

The evening served as a celebration of collaboration and camaraderie within the Taiwanese community in New York. Supporters from various sectors gathered to honor the Republic of China’s 113th National Day, enjoying traditional cultural performances and heartfelt toasts.