115th National Day Celebration of Republic Of China (Taiwan), organised by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC), Chennai.

The Chennai Centre for China Studies (C3S) attended the 115th National Day celebration of the Republic of China (Taiwan) held at The Leela Palace, Chennai. The grand event was organised by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC), Chennai.

The occasion brought together well-wishers, institutional partners, and friends of the TECC, marking a significant gathering of diplomatic, academic, and socio-political figures. The event was notably attended by several Members of Parliament from Tamil Nadu, highlighting the growing strength of India–Taiwan cultural and economic ties.

The evening commenced with the solemn playing of the national anthems of India and Taiwan, symbolising mutual respect and partnership. Following the anthems, Director General of TECC Chennai, HE Stephen Hsu, delivered the inaugural address. In his speech, Mr. Hsu highlighted the enduring friendship between Taiwan and India, emphasizing shared democratic values, economic cooperation, and ongoing cultural exchanges.

As a gesture of goodwill and collaboration, C3S continues to support initiatives promoting bilateral understanding and regional stability.

Below, we share the full text of HE Director General Stephen Hsu’s inaugural address alongside visual highlights from the evening.

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

A very good evening to all of you.

It is my great honor and pleasure to welcome you to the celebration of the 115th National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan).

On behalf of the Government of Taiwan and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in Chennai, I sincerely thank you for joining us tonight. Your presence reflects the warm friendship between Taiwan and India and our shared confidence in a brighter future.

First of all, I would like to invite you to look around. You will see many young students from different universities and colleges tonight, including Anna University, University of Madras, SRM, CIT, JNN, AM Jain, Dr. MGR and Meenakshi College. They are all actively contributing tonight’s event in different ways.

They are not only the future of India; they are also the future of Taiwan–India relations. I call them as the “Ambassadors of Friendship” between Taiwan and India.

Since assuming office on June 25, 2025, I have traveled across South India and meeting government leaders, academics, students, entrepreneurs, journalists and friends from all walks of life.

Every visit has strengthened my belief that Taiwan and India are natural partners. We are brothers and sisters.

On the economic side, Taiwan and India trade volume reached a record of 12.5 billion US Dollars in 2025. Notably, from January to August 2026, bilateral trade has reached 12.9 billion US Dollars, marking a remarkable 61% increase comparing to last year and setting a new record high.

Today, more than 350 Taiwanese companies are investing in India, creating over two hundred thousand jobs, with around two-thirds located in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Taiwan’s strengths in semiconductors, ICT, AI, advanced manufacturing and green technology complement India’s talent, market and manufacturing capabilities. Together, we can build stronger and more resilient supply chains.

Education is equally important. Today, there are 45 Taiwan Education Centers across India, including 18 in South India and 12 in Tamil Nadu.

Of particular note, TECC Chennai has launched a first-ever internship program to give Indian students first-hand exposure to diplomacy. So far, we have welcomed around 20 interns, and two have told me that they hope to become IFS officers in the future. I am very proud to contribute, in a small way, to the development of India’s young talent.

As I often say, diplomacy is not only about governments—it is about people.

Later on, you will see a short video showcasing TECC Chennai’s people-centered public diplomacy and our engagement with the community over the past year.

Looking ahead, my core mission is to bring the IT (India and Taiwan) partnership stronger and stronger, even to infinity.

And my vision for Tamil Nadu’s next golden decade is clear and ambitious:

“Design from Taiwan. Make in Tamil Nadu.”

Together, we are stronger for a brighter future.

Thank you so much.

Nandri! Vanakkam!

Visual highlights from the evening