Mayor Celebrates New Year With Foreign Officials
With the blooming cherry blossoms as the backdrop, Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-bin attended a Chinese New Year Tea Reception hosted by the Department of Cultural Affairs (DOCA) at the historical Grass Mountain Chateau for foreign ambassadors, representatives, businesses, and media on March 2. The Mayor indicated that in the fast-moving transformation of Taipei, the city is determined to be modern and to retain its traditions as it further deepens cultural exchanges. Mayor Hau noted during his welcome speech that this is the Year of the Golden Pig. In Chinese culture, it is believed that the pig symbolizes fortune and prosperity. He is positive that in the upcoming year Taipei’s continual friendship with other countries and cities will flourish and intensify. DOCA Commissioner Lee Yong-ping mentioned that in this constant changing world, Taipei has been a leader in Taiwan for cultural affairs. On one hand, the city will continue to provide support for traditional culture. At the same time, it hopes to open new frontiers by incorporating modern life into culture and the arts. Commissioner Lee further added that she wants to see Taipei become a “Creative City.” Besides forming a film commission, DOCA is planning to create a Culture Park to integrate and centralize all culture-related events and resources. The intent of this goal is to make Taipei into a tourism and cultural center. Since its inception, DOCA frequently interacts with various national representatives and countries for cultural and art exchanges. The department also ensures participation in numerous international events, festivals, activities, and discussions to enrich Taipei residents’ international perspectives. The Tea Reception was held at Grass Mountain Chateau, which was the former residence of Chiang Kai-shek. Guests were taken on a tour of the historical site with detailed explanations of important artifacts on display.