Foreign Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu delivers virtual remarks Oct. 14 during the 24th Forum 2000 Conference. (MOFA)

The Taiwan Model is the secret to the country’s success in combating coronavirus and warrants sharing with the global community, Foreign Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu said Oct. 14 during a virtual address at the 24th Forum 2000 Conference.

Adherence to democratic principles and transparency define Taiwan’s response to the pandemic, Wu said. This philosophy saved lives and raised the country’s profile in the international arena, he added.

According to Wu, Taiwan is willing and able to share its know-how and resources in strengthening the global response to COVID-19. Taiwan Can Help U.N. specialized agencies like the World Health Organization achieve its objectives, as well as realize the world body’s Sustainable Development Goals, he said.

This spirit of cooperation characterizes Taiwan’s international engagement, Wu said, citing a strengthening of relations with the Czech Republic. The historic visit of Czech Senate President Milos Vystrcil and his delegation to Taiwan underscores the effectiveness of the approach, he added.

Vystrcil’s courage in making the trip despite tremendous coercion touched the hearts of the people and brought Taiwan and the EU member state closer together, Wu said. It is expected the two sides will build on this foundation of trust and respect in deepening friendship, expanding exchanges, and creating a more free, open and prosperous society, he added.

Wu also took the opportunity to praise the legacy of late Czech President Vaclav Havel. His contributions to advancing democracy and human rights inspired a generation in Taiwan, he said, adding that it steels the people in resisting ongoing authoritarian aggression against the country.

The conference was established in 1996 as a joint initiative of Havel, Japanese philanthropist Yohei Sasakawa and Nobel Peace Prize winner Elie Wiesel. It aims to identify key issues confronting governments, as well as explore ways in which to prevent the escalation of conflicts while fostering cultural, ethnic and religious tolerance. (YCH-E)