International Outstanding People Association North America General Meeting Visits Taipei Office in San Francisco

The International Elite Association North America Chapter delegation visited the Taiwan Representative Office in San Francisco on the afternoon of March 25th. They were warmly received by the Director of the Office, Lai Ming-chi, and had the opportunity to tour the new premises of the office.

The delegation included prominent figures such as Wu Yuping, the 2023 & 2024 President of the International Elite Association World Headquarters, Wu Muye, the President of the North American Chapter, along with other local chapter presidents and officials from various regions in California.

During the meeting, Director Lai enthusiastically welcomed the delegation and engaged in meaningful discussions. He emphasized the significance of the new premises as a symbol of Taiwan’s government presence, highlighting its role in uniting the overseas community, promoting social connections, and facilitating international engagement through hosting various cultural and community events in the future.

Director Lai underscored the crucial role that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play in Taiwan’s diplomatic strategy, encouraging active engagement with local political figures to enhance Taiwan’s visibility and support in international arenas. He also addressed the issue of Chinese Communist Party infiltration in overseas communities, mentioning Taiwan’s efforts to promote Chinese language and culture centers from K-12 education to university levels as a means to deepen ties with the international community.

Regarding the challenges faced by Taiwan in San Francisco’s political landscape due to the city government’s close ties with the Chinese Communist Party, Director Lai expressed determination to expand connections through local politicians and highlighted the importance of Taiwanese Americans engaging in politics to elevate Taiwan’s political influence and representation in the United States.

The President of the North American Chapter, Wu Muye, briefed Director Lai on the current status and future direction of the Elite Association, expressing hopes for closer collaboration in cultural and community affairs to amplify Taiwan’s voice.

He emphasized the Association’s commitment to nurturing the younger generation, encouraging them to engage in social service and public affairs alongside their entrepreneurial pursuits, and to build a strong organizational and succession mechanism through lectures, discussions, and networking events.

President Wu Yuping reiterated the Association’s mission to promote ethical values and cultivate noble character, stressing the importance of preserving and revitalizing Chinese culture in today’s turbulent societal values. She highlighted the Association’s support for Chinese-American political participation and collaboration with Director Lai’s vision of enhancing mainstream connections.

After the meeting, the head of the Taiwan Representative Office’s news section, accompanied the delegation on a tour of the new premises, showcasing the modern design of the facility, including the cultural center, consular office area, meeting rooms, and a rooftop garden with a comfortable and inviting atmosphere that has garnered positive feedback from the Taiwanese community.

The engaging discussions and exchange of ideas between the Elite Association delegation and the Taiwan Representative Office staff ended on a positive note, with plans for future collaborations and events to further strengthen Taiwan’s presence and support in North America.