Secretariat, Taipei City Government

On February 21, 2025, Washington, D.C. Councilmember Robert White led a delegation to meet with Taipei City Mayor Wan-an Chiang. Prior to the meeting, the delegation visited the Taipei Urban Intelligence Center and Kuang Tzu Public Housing to gain insights into the planning and implementation of Taipei’s smart city initiatives and social housing policies.

Mayor Chiang welcomed Councilmember White and his delegation, emphasizing the many similarities between Taipei and Washington, D.C. as national capitals that serve as hubs for government institutions, foreign embassies, and international businesses. He highlighted their shared commitment to universal values such as freedom, democracy, rule of law, and human rights, expressing his hope for increased exchanges between the two cities. Mayor Chiang also provided an overview of his administration’s vision to develop Taipei as a “city of the future,” a “safe city,” and a “sports city.” He invited the delegation to attend Taipei’s annual Smart City Summit & Expo in March and the 2025 World Masters Games, which will be held in Taipei and New Taipei City in May. Acknowledging the delegation’s interest in the Taipei Urban Intelligence Center and Kuang Tzu Public Housing, Mayor Chiang welcomed them to share their reflections and engage in further discussion.

Councilmember White thanked Mayor Chiang for accommodating the delegation, praising his striking appearance and  dedication as a mayor. He agreed with Mayor Chiang regarding the crucial role of a capital city in a country—serving as a representative voice for its citizens. Councilmember White expressed his hope to strengthen ties through this diplomatic visit, fostering mutual understanding of the cultures of Taipei and Washington, D.C. After attending briefings by the Department of Urban Development and the Department of Information Technology, Councilmember White expressed his admiration for Taipei’s forward-thinking approach and meticulous planning in data governance and urban planning. He proposed future discussions and collaborations in these areas to increase exchanges between the two cities.

During the meeting, the Washington, D.C. delegation and the Taipei City government team engaged in an extensive exchange of ideas on topics such as artificial intelligence, public policy, smart cities, and youth exchanges that contributed to a lively atmosphere. The meeting concluded with the exchange of gifts and a group photo.