Taiwan's First 'Havel's Bench' Unveiled; Chiang Wan-an Calls for Inter-party Dialogue

(Central News Agency reporter Chen Yu-ting, Taipei, June 3) Taiwan's first 'Havel's Bench' was unveiled today. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an stated that the bench symbolizes that through democratic dialogue, people with different opinions can understand each other and further cooperate, and that this should also be the case between different political parties in the country, believing this will allow Taiwan to make great strides forward.

Witnessed by Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an, Czech Senate President Miloš Vystrčil, Czech Economic and Cultural Office Representative David Steinke, and Czech Centre Taipei Director Marketa Zahumenska, the 'Havel's Bench,' jointly established by the Taipei City Government and the Czech Economic and Cultural Office, was unveiled today.

In his speech, Chiang said that after receiving the proposal to install the 'Havel's Bench' three years ago, the city government and the Czech office continuously searched for a suitable location. From the proposal to site selection, survey, design, and discussion of tree species, this bench not only represents democratic dialogue and pays tribute to the late Czech President Václav Havel but also symbolizes the close relationship between Taipei and the Czech Republic.

Chiang pointed out that through democratic dialogue, people with different opinions can understand each other, resolve differences, build trust, and further cooperate. Therefore, this should not only be the case between partners but also between different political parties within the country. 'I believe this can allow Taipei and Taiwan to make great strides forward, and it is also a blessing for the people,' he said.

Chiang then spoke in English, saying that democracy is in Taipei's DNA. Taipei has been governed by mayors from three different political parties and hosts more parades and demonstrations than any other city in Taiwan. This is not chaos but a manifestation of democracy, making Taipei more open, inclusive, and resilient. He likened it to a hotpot, saying, 'You keep eating even when you're sweating because you want another bite.'

Chiang mentioned that his mission as Taipei Mayor is to keep the city open, inclusive, and diverse for people of all ages, genders, backgrounds, and cultures. Just like the ingredients in a hotpot, they don't compete with each other but blend together, which aligns perfectly with the concept of 'Havel's Bench.'

Vystrčil expressed his honor to gather with everyone on the 90th anniversary of Havel's birth to witness the unveiling of the first 'Havel's Bench' in Taiwan. He also expressed pride that the Czech Republic has such a good export product, bringing freedom, democracy, solidarity, and love to the world.

Vystrčil hoped that this product would continue to be exported worldwide, guiding people to sit down, dialogue, exchange ideas, and find solutions, not only thinking about themselves but also considering and caring for the well-being of others, making people all over the world happier.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Wu Jyh-jong stated that Havel is not only a symbol of Czech democracy but also a global model for the pursuit of freedom and human rights. He promoted social reform with courage, wisdom, and firm conviction, leaving a profound impact on democratic values. This bench reminds the world that freedom, dignity, and human rights are precious assets that every society should cherish and protect. He also felt honored that it could be installed in the city where Havel once lived.

The Taipei City Government explained that 'Havel's Bench' is a global project consisting of two chairs and a round table. A growing tree passes through the center of the table, symbolizing that people with different stances can sit down for an equal dialogue, and that democracy, like a tree, needs continuous cultivation and growth.

The city government stated that the first 'Havel's Bench' was unveiled in Washington, D.C., USA in 2013. Taipei is the third Asian city to install one, after Hiroshima, Japan, and Seoul, South Korea, and the 61st globally. The crape myrtle tree was chosen for the bench, confirmed by Havel's widow. (Editor: Chang Ya-ching) 1150603