President Tsai meets Lions Clubs International representatives from Taipei and Busan, Korea
President Tsai Ing-wen met with representatives of District 300A2 (Taipei) and District 355A (Busan, Korea) of Lions Clubs International (LCI) on the morning of February 26. The president praised the LCI for its service to society, and said she hopes the Lions Clubs of Taiwan and Korea will have more opportunities for exchanges and cooperation to promote bilateral relations.
In remarks, President Tsai noted that LCI District 300A2 and LCI District 355A have been sister clubs for 30 years. She then cited an old adage often heard in Taiwan that says, "At the age of thirty, I set my course for the future." So now that the sister club relationship is 30 years old, she said, hopefully the two clubs can set clear goals and move forward. The president also said she was sure that all the Lions on hand were already actively serving society.
President Tsai pointed out that Lions Clubs are an important force in Taiwan's civil society with a long track record of community service. They help the government care for the public and implement policies including fighting drugs, advocating against bullying, and caring for the disadvantaged and elderly people living alone. Wherever there is a need, she said, you will see Lions Clubs members in action.
The LCI District 300A2's service philosophy is: "United by Friendship. Serve with Joy." President Tsai said that unity is the key force that has allowed Taiwan society to repeatedly overcome difficulties. When an earthquake struck eastern Taiwan's Hualien County early this month, she said, people throughout Taiwan were deeply concerned, and the Lions Clubs International Foundation quickly donated NT$2 million to support disaster recovery and reconstruction efforts. The president thanked the Lions for all they've done.
Noting that Lions Clubs serve society regardless of national boundaries, President Tsai pointed out that LCI District 300A2, in addition to carrying out many community service activities in Taiwan, also takes part in the activities of international humanitarian aid organizations, and works tirelessly to expand its international ties. In addition to the Lions Clubs in Korea's Busan, she said, it also has established sister club relations with Lions Club districts in Aomori Prefecture in Japan, Manila in the Philippines, and Bangkok in Thailand. These efforts give Taiwan a higher international profile, the president stated.
Commenting on the LCI motto—"We Serve," President Tsai expressed hope that LCI District 300A2 will enhance its service capabilities to make friends throughout the world, help the world solve problems, and show the world Taiwan's strengths. The president also said she hopes the Lions Clubs of Taiwan and Korea will have more opportunities for exchanges and cooperation to promote bilateral relations.
The group was led by LCI 300A2 District Governor Lin Cheng-yi (林正義) and LCI 355A District Governor Jonggyu Hwang.