Taiwan and the Holy See: “Together for peace and hope”
Ambassador Ho's speech at the celebrations held in Rome for the anniversary of the founding of the Republic of China in the presence of Cardinal Silvano Maria Tomasi. ‘Taipei will continue to promote universal values and defend human dignity.’
Rome (AsiaNews) - The Taiwanese Embassy to the Holy See celebrated the 114th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of China with an official reception at the Auditorium Conciliazione, in the presence of members of the ecclesiastical community, the diplomatic corps and representatives from the academic, cultural and religious worlds.
The event was presided over by Ambassador Anthony C. Y. Ho, who recalled the deep historical ties between Taiwan and the Catholic Church, emphasising how missionaries have contributed to education, healthcare and service to those most in need.
The ambassador recalled that, since taking office in May 2024, President Lai Ching-Te has maintained a constant commitment to safeguarding peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. He reiterated that Taiwan, ‘as a beacon of freedom and democracy,’ will continue to build bridges of peace and charity together with the Holy See.
He added that, like Jesus Christ and his disciples, who defended truth and justice in the face of persecution, Taiwan remains steadfast in its principles and, in deep harmony with Pope Leo XIV, will continue to promote universal values, defend human dignity and proclaim the eternal message that ‘God is love’.
A particularly significant moment was the speech by Cardinal Silvano Maria Tomasi, former Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations Office in Geneva, who offered a prayer for the people of Taiwan, emphasising the values of peace and fraternity that unite the two realities: "Let us pray that the Blessed Virgin Mary will continue to protect Taiwan and its people, and all of us. Let us remember that the strength that sustains our people and our country is not based on weapons or violence, but on goodwill and mutual respect, so that together we can build a better humanity and live in a more beautiful world for all."
During the ceremony, the embassy presented a donation of IT equipment to the Don Bosco Salesian Institute in Verona, received by Don Massimo Zagato, who in his speech of thanks described the gesture as ‘a window on the future’, emphasising the shared commitment to the training of young people and digital education.
The event also saw the inauguration of an exhibition of salt sculptures by Taiwanese artist Lo Kuang-Wei. His works, inspired by biblical episodes, symbolise the faith and resilience of the Taiwanese people. The artistic programme also included performances by soprano Lucia Lui, the children of the Istituto Paritario S.S. Vergine di Roma and a moment of ecumenical fraternity that made tangible the theme chosen for this year: H.O.P.E. - Humanity, Opportunities, Partnership, Encounter.
‘We believe that true greatness lies not in power, but in love,’ said Ambassador HO at the conclusion of the event. ‘Taiwan will continue to walk in unity with the Holy See, building bridges of peace and charity.’
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13/05/2008
