World Cup Kicks Off: Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung Invites Public to Cheer for Allies Haiti and Paraguay
As the 2026 World Cup begins, Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung has called on the public via Facebook to support its diplomatic allies, Paraguay and Haiti. Paraguay returns after 16 years, and Haiti qualifies for the first time in 52 years.
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- 📰 Published: June 12, 2026 at 22:31
- 🔍 Collected: June 13, 2026 at 00:45 (2h 14m after Published)
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: June 13, 2026 at 04:16 (3h 30m after Collected)
(CNA Reporter Wu Shu-wei, Taipei, 12th) The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicked off today, starting with a match between Mexico and South Africa. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung expressed his joy at seeing Taiwan's diplomatic allies, Paraguay and Haiti, step onto the globally spotlighted football stage, inviting the public to tune into their matches this weekend and cheer them on.
In a Facebook post this evening, Lin pointed out that Paraguay is returning to the World Cup stage after a 16-year hiatus, while Haiti has advanced to the tournament for the first time in 52 years. He noted that both countries have written incredible stories along the way, adding that sports connect the world and allow friendship to transcend borders. He urged the public to support Paraguay and Haiti this weekend.
Lin also mentioned he believes many football fans have already marked their schedules and are ready to support their favorite teams. He wished all teams the best in delivering spectacular performances and hoped everyone would enjoy the passion of the World Cup together.
According to the schedule, the South American ally Paraguay will face the United States at 9:00 AM Taiwan time tomorrow, while the Central American ally Haiti will play its opening match against Scotland at 9:00 AM Taiwan time on the 14th. (Editor: Yang Kai-hsiang) 1150612
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In a Facebook post this evening, Lin pointed out that Paraguay is returning to the World Cup stage after a 16-year hiatus, while Haiti has advanced to the tournament for the first time in 52 years. He noted that both countries have written incredible stories along the way, adding that sports connect the world and allow friendship to transcend borders. He urged the public to support Paraguay and Haiti this weekend.
Lin also mentioned he believes many football fans have already marked their schedules and are ready to support their favorite teams. He wished all teams the best in delivering spectacular performances and hoped everyone would enjoy the passion of the World Cup together.
According to the schedule, the South American ally Paraguay will face the United States at 9:00 AM Taiwan time tomorrow, while the Central American ally Haiti will play its opening match against Scotland at 9:00 AM Taiwan time on the 14th. (Editor: Yang Kai-hsiang) 1150612
By choosing to stand with the facts, every contribution you make is a force for protecting press freedom.
Download the CNA 'First Hand News' APP to stay updated with the latest news instantly.
The text, images, and audio-visual materials on this website may not be reproduced, publicly broadcast, publicly transmitted, or utilized without authorization.