President Chen Shui-bian on the afternoon of May 13 presented the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon on behalf of the government and people of the ROC (Taiwan) to Director of the Taipei Office of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Stephen Young. The honor is in recognition of Director Young's long-term efforts and outstanding contributions to promoting substantive and friendly relations between Taiwan and the United States.
The ceremony bestowing the honor was held at 5:00 p.m. at the Presidential Building. Deputy Secretary-General to the President Lin Chia-lung, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Elizabeth Y. F. Chu, Director Young's wife and officials from AIT attended the event.
In the formal ceremony, President Chen delivered brief remarks to announce the granting of the honor and then hung an honorary sash around Director Young, after which he clipped on the Brilliant Star. President Chen and Director Young then shook hands, followed by remarks made by Director Young. Following that, the president and Director Young raised their glasses in a toast to each other. Those attending the event also raised their glasses in an expression of congratulations to Director Young.
In his remarks, Director Young said that he came to know President Chen back when the president was still mayor of Taipei. He said he has known the president for over 10 years and that during this time the president's efforts to promote democracy on Taiwan have been clear for everyone to see. He said the president has helped lead democracy on Taiwan to new heights. Director Young also praised President Chen for his efforts and contributions to Taiwan.
Director Young also expressed his gratitude to the president for bestowing on him this honor. In addition, attributing the honor to his colleagues attending the ceremony, he expressed his hopes that the substantive and cooperative relationship between the two countries will continue to strengthen in the future.