Taiwan-U.S. Partnership Reception Celebrates 250th U.S. Independence Anniversary, Alaska Governor Attends

This year marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) joined forces with the Federation of Taiwan Chambers of Commerce in North America to host a Taiwan-U.S. Partnership Reception at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. last night, celebrating both America's 250th birthday and the 30th anniversary of Taiwan's presidential direct elections. The event brought together approximately 1,000 guests from political, business, and academic circles, with Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy in attendance.

In his speech, TECRO Representative David Y. H. Ou emphasized that the gathering not only honored the U.S. bicentennial milestone but also commemorated three decades of direct presidential elections in Taiwan. He highlighted that both nations share core values such as democracy and freedom, which strengthen their partnership. "This is precisely why conflicts arise when we differ with the other side of the Taiwan Strait," he noted.

Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy delivered remarks, underscoring that Alaska is the westernmost U.S. state and geographically the closest to Taiwan. He recalled a previous visit to Taiwan to advance a major liquefied natural gas (LNG) cooperation project, stating that efforts are ongoing. "We hope to provide assistance to our friends in Taiwan," he said.

The United States declared independence from Britain in 1776, making 2026 the 250th anniversary year. Governor Dunleavy expressed gratitude for Taiwan's early celebration, thanking Taiwan for being "a great friend to the United States, and to Alaska."

He emphasized that the commonalities between the two societies far outweigh their differences, citing similar governmental systems, a shared desire for freedom, rights, liberties, and business practices.

In 2023, Dunleavy stated that Taiwan's planned purchase of 6 million tons of LNG from Alaska would be the largest such order in history. Taiwan's CPC Corporation confirmed in February this year that U.S. LNG currently accounts for 10% of Taiwan's supply. If the Alaska project is finalized, this share could rise to 33%, with production expected to begin as early as 2032.

The reception, attended by dignitaries including Ingrid Larson, Executive Director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Washington Office, and侨委会 Chairperson Hsu Chia-ching, was described by the Kennedy Center as the largest event hosted at the venue from the beginning of the year through July 4.