Diplomats from 12 countries learn about Atayal culture in Taoyuan

Описание: Taoyuan Mayor Cheng Wen-tsan on Thursday led a group of diplomats from 12 countries on a trip to acquaint themselves with Taoyuan’s Indigenous cultures. The diplomats hailed from countries where Austronesian languages are spoken, which have their origins in Taiwan. The foreign visitors experienced Indigenous culture in its fullest, through dance, archery and cuisine. Taoyuan officials hope the trip can lead to closer exchanges between Taiwan and its international friends.

Wearing traditional Atayal clothes, Taoyuan Mayor Cheng Wen-tsan is leading a group of foreign dignitaries to learn about Taiwan’s Indigenous cultures.

Atayal people offer instructions and off they go dancing, hand in hand. It’s a true image of international friendship. The longer they dance, the more rapport they have with each other.

On Thursday morning, Taoyuan Mayor Cheng Wen-tsan invited the ambassadors and representatives from 12 countries where Austronesian languages are spoken on a trip to Taoyuan’s Daxi and Fuxing districts, to get to know Taoyuan’s rural areas. Their itinerary included a visit to the Amuping Marina, a master class in traditional archery, and a traditional blessing ceremony. The trip was designed to get the diplomats better acquainted with Taiwan’s Indigenous cultures.

Cheng Wen-tsan
Taoyuan mayor
Taiwan is the origin of the Austronesian language family. Taiwan has deep ties with Austronesian peoples in other countries in terms of history, kinship and culture. We hope this can boost exchanges with other Austronesian countries.

The diplomats were all smiles during the trip. Through the activities they were able to better understand Taiwan’s Indigenous cultures and policies. Mayor Cheng said that the government should do more to ensure the wellbeing of Taiwan’s 580,000 Indigenous inhabitants.

Cheng Wen-tsan
Taoyuan mayor
Our country should support the development of Indigenous cultures, while taking care of Indigenous industries and employment. We must also pay attention to the welfare systems for Indigenous people living in villages and in the city. I think that, on the front of transitional justice, Taiwan should also push for Indigenous policies.

Cheng and the diplomats enjoyed a delicious meal with many Indigenous dishes that captured everyone’s taste buds. Officials hope that this trip to Indigenous areas can help promote exchanges and deepen the friendship between Taiwan and its allies.