Deputy Mayor Sidhu congratulated Mayor Chiang on the successful conclusion of the Taipei International Cities Forum earlier that morning and expressed strong admiration for Taipei City’s achievements in integrating artificial intelligence into municipal services. She also noted her intention to apply Taipei City’s successful experiences to Los Angeles and shared the current policy priorities of the Los Angeles city government, as well as the preparations for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. Mayor Chiang expressed his sincere admiration for the ability of Los Angeles to host such premier international events.

In the areas of economic and educational development, Mayor Chiang noted that Taipei City is actively promoting its Global Pass initiative in collaboration with multiple international cities. He expressed his hope for this initiative to facilitate exchanges with startup teams in Los Angeles and establish a platform for resource sharing by young entrepreneurs from both cities. In addition, Mayor Chiang proposed strengthening reciprocal visits and cooperation in higher education to facilitate the free flow of talent between the two major technological hubs.

The meeting was relaxed and cordial. Deputy Mayor Sidhu warmly invited Mayor Chiang to visit Los Angeles in person and suggested that they attend a Dodgers game together during his visit.

After the meeting, the two sides exchanged commemorative gifts. Mayor Chiang presented Deputy Mayor Sidhu with a handcrafted wooden music box featuring Taipei 101, symbolizing the city’s welcome through one of its most iconic landmarks. In return, Deputy Mayor Sidhu presented a commemorative item from the Getty Center, a major art museum in Los Angeles. She remarked that although the Getty Center had previously faced threats from wildfires, it continues to stand resilient under careful protection, and she used this resilience as a metaphor to express her hope that the friendship between the two cities will endure.

The meeting was marked by a warm and lively atmosphere. Upon learning that Mayor Chiang is a fan of the Dallas Mavericks, Mayor Pro Tem Moreno presented him with an official Mavericks cap as a commemorative gift. This gesture demonstrated that the close ties between the two cities extend beyond political and economic collaboration to include shared interests in culture and sports.

During the meeting, Mayor Chiang observed that the Comprehensive Environmental and Climate Action Plan and Responsible AI Integration initiative presented by Mayor Pro Tem Moreno at the forum earlier that morning (March 19th) were closely aligned with Taipei’s initiatives promoting an AI-driven smart city and its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. He noted that both cities share a consistent vision with regard to technological governance.

Speaking approvingly of Dallas’s business environment, Mayor Chiang noted that the city is one of the fastest-growing major cities in the United States, noting its success in attracting leading enterprises. In response, Mayor Pro Tem Moreno expressed appreciation for Taipei City’s warm invitation and emphasized that their joint appearance at the International Cities Forum signified a transition toward deeper exchanges between the two cities.

Mayor Pro Tem Moreno stated that direct flights between Taiwan and Dallas have been established, and that this “air bridge” has significantly enhanced the connections between the two locations. He emphasized that Dallas is a highly livable city characterized by low tax rates, a safe residential environment, and strong economic vitality. The city is particularly attractive to young people and offers abundant opportunities for development.

Before the conclusion of the meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Moreno formally extended an invitation to Mayor Chiang to visit Dallas, expressing his hope for Mayor Chiang to experience the city’s vitality and potential. Mayor Chiang conveyed his appreciation and expressed his expectation that the two cities will pursue more comprehensive and substantive cooperation in the future to extend their 30-year friendship.

The theme of this year’s forum is “AI × Future Cities: Smarter Governance, Greener Future.” The forum was led by Mayor of Taipei Wan-An Chiang and featured five international city leaders: Mayor Pablo Cawich of Belmopan, capital of Belize, one of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies; Mayor Dirk Hilbert of Dresden, Germany; Mayor Alex Yam of North West District, Singapore; Mayor Pro Tem Jesse Moreno of Dallas, USA; and Deputy Mayor Dilpreet Sidhu of Los Angeles, USA. 

One of the highlights of the forum is that prior to the forum, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Taipei City and the City of Dresden by Mayor Chiang and Mayor Hilbert. The MoU outlines cooperation in key areas including technological innovation, smart city governance, talent cultivation, youth development, and tourism promotion.

Dresden, the capital of Saxony, Germany, is home to Europe’s largest semiconductor cluster and is widely known as “Silicon Saxony.” It is also the site of TSMC’s first wafer fabrication plant in Europe, making it a major hub for high-tech industry and culture, as well as a key gateway for Taiwan’s semiconductor expansion into Europe. Taipei City has been actively advancing its AI development strategy. In addition to successfully securing the establishment of NVIDIA’s first overseas headquarters this year, Taipei also launched a direct flight route with its sister city Phoenix—known as the “Silicon Desert”—at the end of last year. This strategic cooperation MoU with Dresden, “Silicon Saxony,” will further strengthen Taipei’s pivotal role in the global AI landscape and accelerate its vision of becoming a “Global AI Powerhouse.”

In addition, Taipei City has been proactively expanding its international strategic partnerships in recent years. Since Mayor Wan-An Chiang took office, Taipei has signed memoranda of understanding with seven cities, including Kyiv (Ukraine), Hamamatsu, Kasama, and Shizuoka (Japan) in 2023; Guatemala City (Guatemala) in 2024; Bratislava Old Town (Slovakia) in 2025; and Dresden (Germany) in 2026. These efforts demonstrate Taipei’s continued commitment to deepening diverse international linkages and expanding its global network of city-to-city cooperation.

During the forum, Mayor Chiang delivered a keynote presentation titled “Taipei: The Rise of a Global AI Powerhouse.” Together, he and the other city leaders shared insights on smart governance and discussed how cities can balance innovation with human-centered values in the digital era to build more resilient, intelligent, and sustainable urban systems. In response to the dual main issues of AI development and sustainability, the forum also invited two moderators: Ms. Jaclyn Tsai, former Minister without Portfolio of the Executive Yuan and current Advisor of Taipei City Government, and Professor Yuh-Ming Lee of the Graduate Institute of Natural Resources and Environmental Management, National Taipei University.

Following the forum, the Taipei City Government hosted a “Business Exchange Luncheon”, chaired by Deputy Mayor Wen-Te Chang. In addition to those distinguished guests from the forum, the representatives from major international chambers of commerce and multinational corporations in Taiwan were also invited. Commissioner Chun-An Chen of the Department of Economic Development also made a presentation on Taipei’s investment environment. The luncheon provided a platform to foster meaningful dialogue between city governance and industry development, strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors.

The Taipei City Government first launched the International Cities Forum in May 2025, ahead of the World Masters Games. The second edition was held in March this year, in conjunction with the “2026 Smart City Summit & Expo” which took place on March 17–18. To further promote the Taipei International Cities Forum as a flagship platform, the Taipei City Government will continue to strive for international engagement and bring together leaders from Taipei’s sister cities and international friendly cities to exchange insights on urban governance and enhance the impact of inter-city cooperation.

During the meeting, Mayor Chiang remarked that the strong relationship between the two cities lies in their people. Noting that both he and Mayor Cawich are fathers of three children, he observed that they share common perspectives on family and the upbringing of the next generation. At present, Mayor Cawich’s two sons are studying and working in Taipei, serving as living examples of the close ties between the two cities. Mayor Chiang expressed his desire to strengthen educational exchanges and encourage more outstanding young individuals from Belmopan to pursue studies and training in Taipei.

Mayor Cawich responded warmly, stating that his return visit had allowed him to gain a deeper appreciation of Taiwan’s culture and cuisine, both of which reinforced his sense of the familial bond between the two cities. He also expressed his gratitude for the donation of firefighting equipment provided by the Taipei City Government, noting that a shipment had been arranged and is currently en route to Belize.

Concerning urban governance, the two mayors reached a consensus, identifying smart city development and artificial intelligence applications as their central priorities. Mayor Cawich acknowledged that Belmopan is limited in its resources and technology and expressed his hope that Taipei City could provide assistance and share its practical experience.

Mayor Chiang indicated his willingness to share information and resources, and both sides discussed the potential of civil servant and technological exchanges. Mayor Cawich also extended a cordial invitation for Mayor Chiang to visit Belmopan at a later date to expand municipal cooperation through on-site observation and direct exchanges.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the two sides exchanged commemorative gifts. Mayor Chiang presented a premium Taiwanese whisky as a gift for Mayor Cawich, showcasing Taiwan’s refined alcohol-making techniques, and Mayor Cawich presented a custom-engraved book cover in return, bringing the meeting to a warm and successful conclusion.

Mayor Chiang welcomed Mayor Jones on her inaugural visit to Taipei and noted that San Antonio has a solid foundation in industrial development and urban governance, further remarking on the city’s fame as the home of the National Basketball Association’s San Antonio Spurs and numerous internationally renowned players.

Mayor Chiang stated that Taipei City Government is actively promoting smart city development, with the goal of building artificial intelligence (AI)-driven urban governance and becoming one of the world’s top 10 AI cities by 2035. He added that this vision aligns closely with San Antonio’s proactive efforts in technological innovation and digital development in recent years.

Mayor Chiang expressed his wish for both cities to further expand exchanges and collaboration in the future. He also warmly invited the delegation to experience Taipei’s hospitality and cuisine, joking lightheartedly that gaining a few kilograms before leaving Taipei would be a sign of a truly enjoyable visit.

Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones thanked the Taipei City Government for its warm hospitality and stated that San Antonio has long been committed to advancing technological and economic development and promoting democratic values and international cooperation. She remarked that San Antonio and Taipei share similar development directions in AI and innovation, and expressed hope for more substantive exchanges and cooperation in the future.

During the exchanges and discussions, both parties focused on the development of startups and the biotechnology industry. The Taipei City Government introduced the “Global Pass” program, which aims to connect international innovation hubs and assist startup teams in expanding into overseas markets. Partnerships with nearly 30 cities and close to 100 hubs worldwide have already been established. Taipei is actively developing its biotechnology and medical industries, establishing dedicated startup hubs, and promoting the internationalization of industries. The goal is to support expansion into the U.S. market.

The San Antonio delegation shared its strengths in biotechnology and clinical research, noting that it possesses a comprehensive industrial ecosystem and strong research and development capacity. The delegation expressed support for ongoing cooperation with Taipei regarding biotechnology and medical fields.

Both parties also exchanged opinions on cybersecurity. Mayor Chiang noted that cybersecurity has become increasingly important given the development of digital governance, and he expressed the hope for all international partners to continue sharing experiences and work together to strengthen their urban resilience. The representatives from San Antonio introduced their approaches to enhancing cybersecurity protection through cross-departmental collaboration, information sharing, and talent cultivation.

The meeting was held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, with both parties demonstrating their willingness to continue exchanging information and engaging in diplomatic missions. Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones invited Mayor Chiang to visit San Antonio at an appropriate time in the future, indicating that through deepened cooperation, the two cities could promote mutual development in areas such as technology, industry, and urban governance.

In his remarks, Mayor Chiang noted that last year’s forum was launched alongside the World Masters Games to explore health and sustainability. This year, the forum is held in conjunction with the “Smart City Summit & Expo,” focusing on how AI can optimize urban governance and improve citizen well-being. Mayor Chiang emphasized that technological applications must be people-oriented.

Mayor Chiang stated that Taipei has continued to expand its international connections in recent years. Last year, Taipei launched direct flights with its sister city Phoenix, which is known as the “Silicon Desert,” and has today signed an MoU with Dresden, which is known as “Silicon Saxony.” Both cities intend to cooperate on high-tech innovation, smart governance, talent cultivation, and youth exchanges, symbolizing Taipei’s active efforts to build a global innovation network spanning Europe and the United States—connecting cities and linking industrial ecosystems.

Mayor Chiang remarked that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company is expanding its presence in the United States and Europe. He also noted that NVIDIA established its first overseas headquarters in Taipei. This is not only a major investment but an important vote of confidence from the international community in Taipei’s technological strength and development potential.

Mayor Chiang emphasized that although AI is built on past data, Taipei is more focused on creating future possibilities; this forum is not only a platform for exchange but a starting point for jointly “designing the future.” AI has become a common language across cities and cultures, and Taipei is ready to work with global partners to transform innovation into tangible impact, providing citizens with better services, more precise governance, and more sustainable urban development.

At the International Mayors’ Forum, Mayor Chiang once again delivered a speech, this time titled “Taipei: The Rise of a Global AI Powerhouse,” sharing Taipei’s practical experience in AI governance and reiterating that technological development must balance human-centered values. Taipei aims to be a smart, resilient, and sustainable model city for the international community.

Mayor Chiang announced that the Taipei City Government has set a development goal of making Taipei one of the world’s top 10 AI cities by 2035 and has taken the lead nationwide in issuing “AI Implementation Guidelines,” providing clear operational guidance for the public sector. This enables personnel to innovate within a compliant framework while building a comprehensive AI industry ecosystem and attracting more international investment.

Mayor Chiang discussed NVIDIA’s expansion into Taipei, likening the complex coordination process to the TV series “House of Cards.” He highlighted three key benefits of the company’s expansion: first, “talent magnetism,” which will attract global experts and industry partners; second, “global hub” status, positioning Taipei as a key node for AI innovation; and third, “symbol of trust,” reflecting international confidence in Taipei’s safety and resilience.

Mayor Chiang stated that “innovation is not a luxury but a necessity,” stressing that technology must ultimately serve citizens. He highlighted Taipei’s “Smart Green Corridor” and its integrated emergency care platform, both of which use AI to predict ambulance arrival times and automatically adjust traffic signals. This system saves an average of 42 seconds per trip while reducing accident risk by more than 60%. Additionally, Taipei is the first city globally to implement AI-powered electrocardiograms across its emergency network. This allows for real-time interpretation during transport, improving myocardial infarction detection; every minute saved in this process can increase patient survival rates by 6%.

Mayor Chiang shared a specific success story: last November, an American tourist had a heart attack while hiking Elephant Mountain. Using the AI emergency system, paramedics transmitted physiological data in real time, allowing the hospital to prepare equipment and medical teams before the patient arrived. This rapid coordination saved the tourist’s life.

Mayor Chiang also mentioned that Taipei won first prize in the developing economies category of the IEEE Smart City Contest last year. Furthermore, the city was recently ranked as the world’s most “sticky” destination, signaling that Taipei is not only a premier city but a place where people truly want to live.

The International Mayors’ Forum featured several international leaders, including Mayor Pablo Cawich of Belmopan, Belize; Mayor Dirk Hilbert of Dresden; Mayor Alex Yam of the North West District of Singapore; Mayor Pro Tem Jesse Moreno of Dallas, U.S.A.; and Deputy Mayor Dilpreet Sidhu of Los Angeles, U.S.A., who engaged in in-depth discussions on urban governance and development within the context of digital transformation.

Invited speakers include mayors and deputy mayors from Taipei’s sister cities and international friendly cities across the United States, Europe, the Asia-Pacific, and Central America. Through keynote presentations and high-level panel discussions, speakers will share their cities’ experiences in various policy areas, including digital transformation, intelligent transportation systems, net-zero sustainability, health-care innovation, and cultural creativity. Taipei hopes that this international platform will serve to strengthen its capabilities of city diplomacy and foster closer, results-oriented partnerships with cities worldwide.

This year’s forum centers on the theme of “Future Cities,” examining how AI can be applied to public services, transportation management, urban safety, digital transformation, and sustainable development. Discussions will explore how cities can balance technological innovation with human-centered values in the digital era, while building more resilient and intelligent governance models. Through thematic presentations and dialogues, city leaders will exchange practical experiences in smart governance, net-zero transition, and social service innovation, promoting inter-city policy learning and tangible cooperation, while showcasing Taipei’s achievements and vision in smart governance and sustainable urban development.

A business networking luncheon will also be held on the same day, bringing together representatives from international cities, multinational companies operating in Taipei, foreign chambers of commerce, and high-tech startups. Through briefings and social exchanges over lunch, the event will facilitate meaningful dialogues on urban governance and industrial development, while strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors. 

Of particular note, global AI leader NVIDIA is set to establish its first overseas headquarters in Taipei, highlighting the city’s global strategic importance within the AI industry. The Taipei City Government noted that as international high-tech companies continue to expand their presence in the city, Taipei is emerging not only as a hub of industrial innovation but also as a key testing ground for the practical application of AI in public governance. The forum will also connect with related events of the 2026 Smart City Summit & Expo and Net-Zero City Expo, which will take place from March 17 to 18 at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, showcasing the integration of AI and urban governance while promoting cross-sector collaboration among government, industry, and academia.

The Taipei City Government emphasized that the 2026 Taipei International Cities Forum is more than an international conference—it represents Taipei’s forward-looking commitment to the future. By integrating AI technologies with public policy innovation, Taipei will continue to dive into smart governance, step up urban resilience and global competitiveness, and move toward a city that is safer, more sustainable, and driven by innovation.

During the meeting, Mayor Chiang noted that Singapore’s National AI Strategy 2.0 closely aligns with Taipei’s vision of an AI-driven smart city. Mayor Yam expressed strong agreement, stating that AI should be positioned as a service that links government and citizens and substantially enhances administrative efficiency. As an example, he noted that the North West District is currently promoting the largest sports group initiative in Singapore. Although the initiative previously required numerous staff members to conduct roll calls, the process can now be completed using AI-based image recognition technology, which requires only a single group photograph. However, Mayor Yam cautioned that although AI can advance national governance, health care, and transportation management, “AI must be governed by humans, not humans by AI.”

In addition to technology, Mayor Chiang shared the outcomes of adapting Singapore’s experiences to local practice. After his visit to Singapore in 2023, where he was inspired by its Silver Zone initiative, he immediately instructed the Department of Transportation to implement a similar program. The pilot program in Taipei has since yielded exemplary results. Mayor Chiang noted that Taipei will continue to participate in the annual World Cities Summit, which is to be held in Singapore in June, and expressed his desire to observe the effects of additional innovative policies during his visit.

Addressing the shared challenge of declining birth rates, Mayor Chiang sought Mayor Yam’s insights. Mayor Yam acknowledged that despite the Singaporean government’s provision of cash incentives for individuals who have a third child and its efforts to establish family-friendly workplaces and community environments, increasing birth rates remains a considerable challenge. Nevertheless, he noted that in addition to employing AI-driven automation to mitigate labor shortages, immigration policies offer an immediate solution to population challenges. However, such policies are complicated by political considerations, language, and the need for cultural integration. Mayor Chiang expressed his strong agreement with these sentiments, and both sides agreed to continue strengthening bilateral ties and to work to develop more livable and intelligent cities.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Mayor Yam observed that although AI is powerful, the connections between people and the warmth of human care are elements that technology can never replicate, and that these elements constitute the core values of urban governance. Mayor Chiang strongly approved of this view, and both sides agreed to deepen their bilateral friendship and collaborate to create cities that are more intelligent, more livable, and more human-centered.

Mayor Chiang noted that Guam has enthusiastically participated in several of Taipei’s major events, including the Taipei Lantern Festival. The Guam Visitors Bureau has for six consecutive years set up themed lantern displays at the festival featuring local cultural characteristics, allowing Taipei citizens to learn about Guam’s culture and charm through the event, for which Taipei expresses its sincere appreciation. Mayor Chiang also mentioned that Guam boasts magnificent ocean scenery and a rich Chamorro culture. Direct flights between Taipei and Guam were launched last April. The flights take less than 4 hours and make travel between the cities more convenient. Mayor Chiang expressed his hope for more people from Guam to visit Taipei. He wishes that both sides will continue to cooperate on tourism, cultural exchanges, and industrial initiatives.

Governor Leon Guerrero stated that her visit to Taiwan included meetings with several government agencies and old friends, and that she had enjoyed experiencing Taiwan’s warmth and friendship. She highlighted that among Guam’s four Taiwanese sister cities, the relationship with Taipei is the oldest and strongest. She indicated a desire to continue promoting personnel exchanges and to deepen cooperation in education and medical referrals.

Governor Leon Guerrero shared that Guam is actively developing hydroponic agriculture and aquaculture while exploring semiconductor industry opportunities to attract Taiwanese investment. She also informed the shared Austronesian heritage between Guam and Taiwan; after visiting Kaohsiung and Sun Moon Lake, she articulated a deeper appreciation of the cultural ties and Indigenous connections they share.

Governor Leon Guerrero invited Mayor Chiang to visit Guam in June and participate in the Ko’ko’ Road Race and the Guam Micronesia Island Fair, where he could experience Guam’s diverse culture and tourism.

Both parties exchanged views on the future of their respective cities. Mayor Chiang stated that Taipei is actively promoting AI development with the goal of becoming one of the world’s top 10 AI cities by 2035. Governor Leon Guerrero offered her support for this vision, stating that although global society has mixed feelings about AI, Guam encourages students to view it as a resource for learning and work rather than a replacement for human thought. This approach, she explained, aims to help the next generation effectively master technology.

To conclude the meeting, Mayor Chiang presented Governor Leon Guerrero with a Taipei 101 wooden music box as a symbolic welcoming gesture and keepsake. Governor Leon Guerrero gifted local souvenirs from Guam and reiterated her invitation for the mayor to visit Guam soon.

Mayor Chiang noted that the annual Taipei Lantern Festival has been held for more than 20 years and is a major event that attracts visitors from Taiwan and abroad. This year, the creative team behind the festival achieved multiple breakthroughs, particularly the 10-meter Transformers lantern installed at the Taipei Expo Park exhibition area. Its 40 surrounding light installations and dedicated sound effects create a stunning, immersive experience.

Mayor Chiang highlighted the festival’s strong international presence, with 13 countries and cities participating in the “Friendship Display Area.” He observed that because this year marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) is participating in the Taipei Lantern Festival for the first time, symbolizing the deep friendship and cultural exchange between Taiwan and the United States.

As the 228 Peace Memorial Day weekend approaches, Mayor Chiang encouraged residents to plan a Taipei getaway of “flower viewing by day and lantern viewing by night.” He suggested that visitors begin with the Yangmingshan Flower Festival, Beitou Shan Tseng Chi Flower Festival, or the CKS Shilin Residence Tulip Festival, followed by Dalongdong Bao’an Temple and a culinary tour of Ningxia Night Market, before concluding the evening with the lantern displays at the Taipei Expo Park exhibition area.

After the lighting ceremony, Mayor Chiang visited the Friendship Display Area. Because AIT is participating in the Taipei Lantern Festival for the first time, Mayor Chiang visited their lantern display first. He observed that this year’s lighting ceremony was particularly meaningful: Through their lantern-themed exchanges, Taiwan and the United States shone a light on their deep-rooted friendship.

Prior to the lighting ceremony, Mayor Chiang visited the Flora Expo Response Center to thank personnel from various Taipei City Government departments stationed on-site for their efforts in maintaining order and ensuring safety during the festival. He reminded staff that large crowds are expected over the next 19 days and urged everyone to remain steadfast through the final day, making every effort to safeguard public safety, ensure smooth pedestrian and vehicle traffic flow, and conclude the Taipei Lantern Festival successfully.

The 2026 Taipei Lantern Festival will run through March 15. In addition to the “Flowers and Butterflies” of the exhibition area at Expo Park, the Ximending exhibition area features the POP MART IP, which is especially popular with young people. Mayor Chiang warmly invited residents and visitors to bring their families and avail themselves of the opportunity to experience this grand celebration of light, an event that embodies diversity, inclusiveness, and openness.

Mayor Chiang noted that his first overseas visit after taking office was to Singapore, and that he was deeply impressed by the city’s urban planning. Mayor Chiang was particularly inspired by Singapore’s Silver Zone policy, which provided a model for the traffic-friendly pilot zone in Daxue Village that has gradually been expanded to other districts across Taipei City. This initiative has decreased the number of traffic accidents and enhanced the experience of pedestrians, demonstrating the tangible benefits of Mayor Chiang’s learning from Singapore.

Mayor Chiang also expressed special thanks to Singapore for its long-standing invitations to participate in the World Cities Summit, a major platform for international exchanges. Representative Foo conveyed the regards of Hong Tat Chee, Singapore’s Minister of National Development, to Mayor Chiang, and extended his invitation to Mayor Chiang to attend the World Cities Summit. Mayor Chiang responded that if his schedule permitted, he would attend this year’s World Cities Summit.

Representative Foo remarked that although she had been in Taiwan for only four weeks, she had already found Taipei to be as warm and welcoming as her hometown. She observed that Taipei’s modernization has preserved its traditional culture, something from which Singapore can learn. Representative Foo also expressed her hope to learn from Taipei City’s cultural and creative design industries as Singapore plans a museum.

Representative Foo also stated that Singapore was highly interested in Taipei’s dynamic startup ecosystem, and that she looked forward to strengthening connections between both cities’ startup communities. She also expressed her hope for deeper cooperation in Chinese-language education. Mayor Chiang replied that Taipei City was currently promoting the Global Pass entrepreneur program with several international cities such as Singapore; the program enables startup teams to engage in mutual exchanges.

Additionally, Mayor Chiang commented that Taipei City welcomed reciprocal exchanges of Chinese and English teaching staff with Singapore to cultivate talent.

After the meeting, Mayor Chiang presented Representative Foo with a deluxe gift box and signed spring couplets. He also introduced Dadaocheng as Taipei’s former commercial center, noting that Dihua Street remains the city’s best-preserved historic district. With the Lunar New Year approaching, Mayor Chiang recommended that Representative Foo visit Dihua Street’s bustling New Year Market to experience the warmth of Taipei’s residents and their festive traditional celebrations. He expressed his hope that through exchanges across various fields, the friendship between Taipei and Singapore would continue to grow.

Mayor Chiang stated that the Taipei and Phoenix Little League baseball teams held a friendly match yesterday, and that he and Mayor Gallego made a special visit to Xinsheng Park Baseball Field to cheer on the young players, expressing his hope that youth baseball exchanges between the two cities will continue. He also noted that the two cities share the same “DNA” in AI technology development: Phoenix has become an important “silicon desert” through the introduction of Taiwanese semiconductor investment; meanwhile, since he took office, Taipei has been committed to building an “AI-Driven Smart City”, and has recently succeeded in attracting NVIDIA to establish its overseas headquarters in Taipei. He expressed his expectation that Taipei will reach new heights in the field of AI in the future, adding that these two sister cities are akin to twin engines driving the development of the global technology economy. 

Mayor Chiang went on to note that Phoenix and Taipei have been sister cities for 47 years since the establishment of the relationship in 1979, nearly as old as he was, making this bond feel all the more precious and personal. At present, the two cities are also engaged in promoting mutual understanding among the younger generation through student exchange programs, thereby deepening the sister-city friendship. Mayor Chiang humorously remarked that Taipei’s warm and humid climate and Phoenix’s dry and hot climate make the two cities a “perfect match” for each other. He added that Taipei will always be a home in Asia for friends from Phoenix and warmly welcomed the delegation to visit again, expressing his hope that the visitors would take time to explore Taipei’s night markets and savor Taipei’s cuisine.

In response, Mayor Gallego expressed her gratitude to Mayor Chiang and the Taipei City Government for their warm hospitality. She noted that the two cities are sister cities and that both mayors are alumni of the University of Pennsylvania, which made both mayors more akin to close friends than colleagues. With the launch of STARLUX direct flights, exchanges between Taipei and Phoenix are bound to become even more frequent in the future. She further mentioned that growing investment from Taiwan in Phoenix has driven the formation of new industrial clusters and has also led to a new “baby boom,” with approximately 300 Taiwanese babies born in Phoenix this year. As her current term as mayor will conclude and she will step down thereafter, this visit may be her last trip to Taipei during her tenure. She therefore took this opportunity to express her most sincere appreciation for nearly 50 years of deep friendship with sister city Taipei and expressed her hope that the relationship between the two cities will continue to deepen and flourish.

After the remarks concluded, Mayor Chiang and Mayor Gallego exchanged commemorative gifts. Mayor Chiang presented a gift package that included a limited-edition Snoopy commemorative T-shirt and related items created for the 2026 Taipei New Year’s Eve event, as well as the picture book HEY TAIPEI, conveying Taipei City’s sincere blessings and friendship to Phoenix. In return, Mayor Gallego presented a colored glass paper crane, symbolizing blessings and good wishes and also signifying the long-lasting continuation of the sister-city friendship between the two cities.

The luncheon meeting also featured briefing sessions by representatives from both parties, during which they shared key policies and directions for urban development. Representing the Taipei City Government, Commissioner Hsiang Yu of the Department of Information and Tourism and Commissioner Chun-An Chen of the Department of Economic Development respectively presented briefings on the city’s major initiatives in tourism and industrial development. The Phoenix City Government was represented by Ryan Touhill, City of Phoenix Community and Economic Development Department Director, who introduced Phoenix’s current state of industrial development and the progress made with TSMC’s investment. Attending guests listened attentively and engaged in active interaction throughout the session.

Following the speeches, Mayor Chiang and Mayor Gong jointly witnessed the signing of two memoranda of understanding (MOU): the MOU on Promoting Exchanges and Cooperation in Water Management and the MOU on Sharing Experience in Vocational Skills Training between Shanghai and Taipei. After the main forum concluded, Mayor Chiang also visited several thematic sub-forums as is customary, including those on healthy and active aging, rail transportation, and medical technology. The full remarks by Mayor Wan-An Chiang at the main forum are as follows:

This is my second time coming to Shanghai to attend the Taipei-Shanghai City Forum as Mayor of Taipei, and I must say—it wasn’t easy getting here this time.

On my way to Shanghai, as I flew across the Taiwan Strait, I couldn’t help but reflect on the following: over the centuries, this strait has witnessed the crossings of early settlers over the treacherous Black Ditch, the brutality of World War II, and the joy and sorrow of the people on both sides following 1949. It has also borne witness to periods of peaceful exchanges across the Strait. What I believe people care most about today is not just the history—but the future of our two cities and of cross-strait relations. How should we move forward?

In Taiwan, some support while others question our dialogues and exchanges. But in these uncertain times, we have persisted with the Shanghai–Taipei City Forum—because I firmly believe that “engagement” is better than “resentment,” “conversation” is better than “confrontation,” “understanding” is better than “misunderstanding,” and “interaction” is better than “tension.” “When our two cities thrive, the two sides of the Strait prosper together!”

And so—I have come to Shanghai once again!

Visiting Shanghai right after Christmas carries a special meaning for me. Shanghai is like a Christmas tree—as novelist Jin Yu-cheng, author of Blossoms Shanghai, once wrote: “Shanghai accommodates all sorts of strange and incredible tales, and a diverse tapestry of stories can be drawn on it.”

Taipei is very much the same—perhaps even more so. It is inclusive, diverse, and open. It is precisely this spirit that has allowed the Taipei-Shanghai City Forum to remain the only ongoing official dialogue platform across the Strait, fostering mutual exchange and shared learning.

This year’s forum is themed “Technology Transforms Life.” Many believe that as we enter the AI era, the role of human beings may gradually diminish. However, I firmly believe that the opposite is true, especially in urban governance; we must hold fast to our core value of people-centeredness. As Mayor of Taipei, my constant priority is how technology can help us get closer to people, to better serve each and every citizen.

Back in 1919, during the May Fourth Movement, the slogans “Mr. Democracy” and “Mr. Science” sparked a pursuit of these two ideals in the Chinese-speaking world. From our present-day perspective, “Mr. Science” is technology and AI; and from our shared cultural heritage, “Mr. Democracy” represents the idea that “The people are the foundation of a country, and only when the foundation is consolidated can the country be peaceful.” Municipal governance, then, must be about serving citizens, being close to citizens, and respecting citizens. 

When it comes to AI and urban governance, I’d like to share two examples:

In Taipei, we have the “1999 Citizen Hotline”; following our twin city exchanges, Shanghai developed the 12345 Hotline. Whenever Taipei citizens have a concern, calling 1999 connects them directly to the relevant departments, which collect information and respond to inquiries. The Research, Development & Evaluation Commission also monitors the efficiency and effectiveness of each department’s responses to relevant municipal issues.

Nowadays, we have begun integrating AI into our services through technology. When citizens call the 1999 Citizen Hotline, the system simultaneously converts voice into text. With the help of AI, our operators can respond immediately and accurately, considerably improving administrative efficiency and enhancing service quality. We will continue to leverage AI to care for a wider range of communities and address more diverse issues.

The second example is our “Milk for Every Student” initiative. Starting this year, every child in Taipei between the ages of 2 and 12 can receive one free bottle of fresh milk per week. This policy integrates private sector logistics from convenience store’s supply chains, universal student ID cards, and a digital registration platform, enabling each child or parent to simply tap their card at a convenience store to collect the milk. Regardless of their family’s economic background, technology is helping us raise healthier children.

I share these two examples to make one point: whether it’s “Mr. Democracy” or “Mr. Science,” both must ultimately be people-centered. And by “people,” I don’t mean the collective noun—I mean every single individual. When we talk about democracy, science, municipal policy, or governance, focusing on the majority reflects the scale of governance, whereas centering on individuals reflects the warmth of governance.

The scale of governance keeps a city grow, but the warmth of governance defines its greatness. My personal aspiration is this: while expanding the scale of infrastructure is the duty of a mayor, ensuring the warmth of governance is the bedrock of every political leader’s conscience.

Prior to my trip to Shanghai, Taipei experienced an unfortunate indiscriminate attack on December 19, which caused significant public anxiety.

This incident served as a sobering reminder that our city is not without risks. Yet, in the face of the crisis, citizens stood up courageously—some even at the cost of their lives. In the days that followed, the people of Taipei came together in compassion, donating and mourning as one. Their actions showed us that the warmth of our city is ever-present and deeply moving.

A people-centered city is not one where crises never occur; it is one that responds to crises with resilience. Therefore, the responsibility of those who govern is to mitigate risks, manage crises, protect the people, and defend the “people-centered values” that we hold dear.

Later today, I will once again fly across the Taiwan Strait back to Taipei. Out in the western Pacific, fishing boats continue to cast their nets, and cargo ships keep moving through sea lanes. On my flight, I’m certain I’ll meet many familiar travelers who frequently cross the Strait—each striving for a better life. And so, I sincerely hope—and earnestly call upon all of us—that one day, when people speak of the Taiwan Strait, they will no longer think of turbulent waters and roaring winds, but of peace and prosperity.

This is my hope, and the goal I have long been working toward. I wish this year’s Shanghai–Taipei City Forum great success. When our two cities thrive, the two sides of the Strait shall prosper together.

Mayor Chiang began by welcoming his long-time friend, Representative Keisuke Suzuki, back to Taiwan. Chiang noted that their friendship began when he was still serving as a legislator and has since grown stronger. He especially thanked the visiting delegation members for their consistent efforts in supporting Taiwan-friendly policies in Japan’s National Diet and for voicing support for Taiwan in international venues. Mayor Chiang also emphasized that Taipei City is actively driving the AI industry forward and successfully attracted NVIDIA to establish operations in Taipei. Looking ahead, he expressed his desire to strengthen collaboration with Japanese industries, particularly in the semiconductor and high-tech sectors.

Representative Keisuke Suzuki expressed his gratitude to Mayor Wan-An Chiang for taking the time to meet despite his busy schedule, and extended his condolences regarding the recent random attack incident on the Taipei Metro. Suzuki noted that since Mayor Chiang took office, the two have met almost annually, and he was pleased to make another visit before the end of 2025, bringing this year’s exchanges to a meaningful close. He emphasized that all members of the delegation are senior, long-standing friends of Taiwan, and he strongly endorsed the mayor’s vision of jointly addressing global challenges.

On the topic of industrial and product exchange, Representative Junichi Kanda shared that his hometown, Aomori Prefecture, has deep ties with Taiwan. Not only is Taiwan the largest export market for Aomori apples, but the region has also direct flights to Taiwan, facilitating frequent exchanges. As Taiwan prepares for the upcoming World Baseball Classic, Representative Suzuki humorously remarked that he is very much looking forward to the exciting games—but should Taiwan and Japan face off, as a friend of Taiwan, he “honestly wouldn’t know which team to support.” At the conclusion of the meeting, Representative Akihisa Nagashima commended Mayor Chiang’s performance in governance and expressed great anticipation for the mayor’s future in politics.

Mayor Chiang recalled that his first official overseas visit after taking office was to Singapore, where he received full support and assistance from Representative Yip and the Singapore Trade Office in Taipei. During the visit, he studied key urban districts including Orchard Road and the Silver Zone (an elder-friendly safety zone). The experience provided valuable inspiration and references for Taipei’s subsequent efforts in commercial district revitalization and traffic safety improvements.

Mayor Chiang further noted the frequent and close interactions between Taipei and Singapore, particularly in urban governance, transportation, and talent development. In addition to being invited annually by Singapore’s Ministry of National Development to attend the World Cities Summit (WCS), the two parties have also achieved fruitful outcomes in various exchanges, such as metro system operations and maintenance, civil servant training, youth exchange programs, and bilingual education. Furthermore, the mayor expressed special interest in Singapore’s current progress in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).

Representative Yip explained that the Singaporean government currently identifies AI, sustainability, and energy as national development priorities and is actively managing progress on those fronts through various policies. He also pointed out that, in addition to pursuing technological advancement, the Singaporean government is placing considerable focus on addressing and mitigating the negative impact brought about by AI, such as scams and concerns over personal data security. Representative Yip emphasized that Taipei has long been one of Singapore’s most important partners in the Asia region, and he expressed hope that the two cities will continue to deepen their cooperation and mutual learning in areas such as sustainable urban development, digital transformation, and international talent cultivation.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Mayor Chiang presented Representative Yip with a Taipei 101 music box themed after the city, hoping that it would serve as a keepsake of the Representative’s fond memories in Taipei. Mayor Chiang also praised Representative Yip as a true “brother and friend” of Taipei and offered his heartfelt best wishes for continued success in his future endeavors.

Mayor Chiang welcomed Chairman Sumi, thanking him for making time to visit despite his demanding schedule. He noted that the relations between Taiwan and Japan have long been close and friendly, and that the Taipei City Government has actively promoted substantive cooperation with cities across Japan. The two parties share geographic and societal similarities, as well as common values in democracy and freedom—providing a strong foundation for further deepening mutually beneficial exchanges in response to shared challenges.

Chairman Sumi Shuzo expressed that it was a great honor to meet Mayor Wan-An Chiang for the first time in his capacity as Chairman of the Japan–Taiwan Exchange Association. He shared his deep personal connection to Taiwan, noting that his father-in-law is from Keelung, and expressed hope that the longstanding friendship between Japan and Taiwan can continue to deepen through city diplomacy and grassroots engagement and be passed on to the next generation. Mayor Chiang noted that since the establishment of the Department for Youth in the Taipei City Government, the city has actively expanded youth exchanges with Japan. This includes the signing of an internship cooperation agreement with Waseda University, Chairman Sumi’s alma mater. He affirmed that Taipei will continue to strengthen youth interaction in the future.

The two parties also conducted an in-depth exchange of views on topics such as energy, population decline, and the urban–rural divide. Chairman Sumi pointed out that Japan faces three major challenges: energy supply, a declining and aging population, and population concentration. He emphasized that in an era of rapid developments in AI and big data, the importance of stable power supply has become even more critical. Additionally, the energy crisis triggered by the Russia–Ukraine war has prompted Japan to re-evaluate its nuclear energy policies.

Mayor Chiang then shared how the Taipei City Government is working to strengthen urban resilience across the domains of safety, economy, and energy. He highlighted the city’s forward-looking approach to AI development, including its successful efforts to attract NVIDIA to establish a headquarters in Taipei. In line with international trends and investment needs, the city is also carefully assessing the feasibility of small modular reactors and other new energy sources. Chairman Sumi expressed his strong recognition of Taipei’s proactive efforts.

In his remarks, Chiang first thanked Prime Minister Drew for leading a delegation to Taipei from afar, especially at a time when Taiwan had just been affected by a typhoon, which evoked a sense of “an old friend arriving through wind and rain.” He also expressed his appreciation to the attending heads of diplomatic missions and to Ambassador Andrea Bowman of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines for their support of the sister-city agreement between Taipei and Basseterre. Chiang noted that in May of last year, Taipei established a sister-city relationship with Kingstown, the capital of Saint Vincent, and expressed hope that Taipei and the capitals of its diplomatic allies would continue to engage in friendly cooperation and open a new chapter in their relations.

Chiang mentioned that the Republic of China and the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis established diplomatic relations in 1983, marking 42 years of friendship. The sister-city agreement between the two capitals represents a significant milestone, and Chiang expressed confidence that both cities will further deepen cooperation in areas such as education, culture, commerce, tourism, and smart city development, thereby strengthening their substantive ties.

Chiang also noted that in recent years, Taipei and Saint Kitts and Nevis have engaged in various exchanges. Since taking office, Prime Minister Drew has placed strong emphasis on education and youth health development. In response, Taipei donated 50 YouBike shared bicycles to Saint Kitts and Nevis in 2023 to support local youth and international tourists in exploring the island. In addition, Saint Kitts and Nevis has actively participated in the Taipei Lantern Festival for the past 3 years by setting up themed lantern displays.

Chiang went on to mention that at the Neihu Midsummer Music Festival held this August, a dance ensemble from Saint Kitts and Nevis performed, and Ambassador Donya Lynex Francis personally took part in a traditional folk dance performance. His participation received an enthusiastic response, and he was recognized as an outstanding dancer.

Chiang expressed his belief that Taipei and Basseterre will have ample opportunities for further exchange and collaboration across various areas of municipal governance. He specifically highlighted Taipei’s initiatives such as scholarships for youth from sister cities to study Mandarin in Taipei and residency programs for artists from sister cities at the Taipei Artist Village. He extended a sincere invitation to Basseterre to actively participate in these programs and activities, thereby fostering deeper mutual exchange.

Chiang first congratulated Hannan on her new appointment and noted that both she and Hudon are well acquainted with Taipei, which he believes will contribute to deepening exchanges and cooperation between Taipei and Canada. He expressed appreciation for Canada’s long-standing support in the fields of education, culture, trade, health care, and technology. In particular, he highlighted education, noting that Canada is a popular destination for Taiwanese youth pursuing studies or working holidays, and that both sides have promoted initiatives such as dual high school diploma programs. He also mentioned the annual Canada Day celebration held at the Taipei Hakka Cultural Park, a well-received event that the Taipei City Government will continue to support.

Hannan thanked Chiang for taking the time to meet and remarked that she was deeply impressed by Taipei’s development. She noted her longstanding connection with Taiwan dating back to the 1990s and expressed her observation of the marked progress in the city’s transportation and institutional systems since her last visit. She added that next year will mark the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the Canadian Trade Office in Taipei and emphasized that efforts to advance bilateral cooperation will continue. She also expressed particular appreciation for the Taipei City Government’s support of Canada Day celebrations.

During the meeting, the two parties exchanged opinions on technology, artificial intelligence, and industrial development. Hannan noted that Canada possesses strong research and development capabilities in artificial intelligence and expressed hope for strengthened cooperation with Taipei. Chiang responded that Taipei welcomes investment from Canadian enterprises and brought up the Invest Taipei Office, which offers one-stop services to facilitate such engagement. He expressed anticipation for deeper collaboration with relevant Canadian industries. The discussion also covered energy and security issues. Chiang explained that Taipei’s policy priorities focus on three key areas: the technology economy, public safety, and energy. Hannan noted that Canada is a major global energy exporter and welcomes the prospect of enhanced cooperation in the area of energy security.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Chiang presented Hannan with a copy of The Map of Taipei, expressing his hope that she would continue to explore and discover more of the city’s beauty in the days to come.

The signing ceremony was held at the Nagoya City Hall and was attended by Taipei Deputy Mayor Wen-Te Chang and Nagoya Deputy Mayor Hideo Nakata. Chang remarked, “I hope today marks a new beginning for expanding exchange across various fields between our two cities, and I very much look forward to cooperation in years ahead.”

Nakata noted, “Providing mutual support in times of difficulty allows citizens on both cities to recognize the importance of solidarity, and in turn, raises awareness of disaster preparedness.” Kazuhide Fujita, Leader of the Nagoya City Council LDP Caucus and Chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Friendly Parliamentarians Association, also attended the ceremony to witness this milestone in disaster resilience cooperation between the two cities.

The memorandum outlines plans to promote collaboration among civil society organizations in the field of disaster resilience and to strengthen information and knowledge exchange related to emergency response.

In recent years, Taipei and Nagoya have maintained close and sustained exchanges across a wide range of collaborative fields. During the Taiwan Lantern Festival, the two cities jointly invited the Nagoya-based performance troupe 笑゛(Jyo) to present a lively Yosakoi-themed show, celebrating the traditional Japanese summer festival. Additionally, Taipei Zoo and Nagoya-City Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens have partnered to advance a Malayan tapir conservation initiative, marking a new chapter in wildlife preservation. Government agencies from both cities have conducted multiple reciprocal visits, exchanging views on topics such as youth policy, cultural exchange, environmental protection, and disaster resilience. Both cities have also actively participated in international city forums and major events, demonstrating the strength of their enduring friendship and the strength of their cooperative foundation.

During the meeting, Chang expressed his gratitude to Mayor Namba for taking the time to receive the delegation despite his demanding schedule and thanked the Shizuoka City Government for its warm hospitality. He noted that Taipei and Shizuoka have maintained close ties over the years, supported by a solid foundation of cooperation in urban governance and civil society exchange. Representing Taipei Mayor Wan-An Chiang, Chang also conveyed appreciation for Namba’s visit to Taipei in May of this year to attend the opening ceremony of the World Masters Games Taipei–New Taipei and the Taipei International Cities Forum, which demonstrated his support for Taipei and the strong friendship between the two cities.

In their discussion on urban development, Chang acknowledged Shizuoka’s plan to construct a domed sports stadium. He highlighted that Taipei Dome has hosted numerous international sporting events and concerts, and that Taipei City has gained valuable event operations experience. He expressed hope that both cities could continue to exchange insights on venue management and event planning. In response, Namba remarked that Shizuoka would also be sending a delegation to participate in the Taipei Marathon later this year, reflecting his expectation for deeper engagement between the two cities.

In addition, Ching-hsinn Huang, President of Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation (TRTC), joined the delegation in visiting Toshiyuki Kawai, President of Shizuoka Railway Co., Ltd. Since 2023, TRTC and Shizuoka Railway have established a friendly international partnership under a memorandum of cooperation. The two companies have since engaged in regular exchanges to share experiences in urban rail transit operations. Going forward, they plan to further deepen cooperation in both technical and operational domains.

Chang’s keynote was titled “Cocreating a Resilient Future: The Power of Intercity Collaboration” and emphasized that cities must strengthen their resilience in the face of multiple global challenges such as climate change and social transformation. As centers of population and economic activity, cities must possess robust adaptive capacity. Such resilience is not limited to disaster preparedness and emergency response; it also serves as the cornerstone for sustainable urban development and improved quality of life through collaboration and innovation.

Chang further emphasized that intercity collaboration is the most powerful driver in cocreating a resilient future. He stated that Taipei will continue to enhance its safety resilience through technology and broad-based civic engagement, foster social resilience through culture and sports, and advance economic resilience through entrepreneurship and talent cultivation. Together, these efforts aim to lead the city toward a more sustainable and promising future.

During the forum, Chang and Nakano also engaged in dialogue, reaching a consensus on intercity exchange, public–private collaboration, and participation in international affairs through the strategic use of international organizational networks.

Prior to the forum, Chang held a brief meeting with Nakano. Chang expressed his appreciation for Hamamatsu’s invitation to participate in the event and conveyed strong expectations for deepening future cooperation between the two cities. Taipei and Hamamatsu have maintained close ties over an extended period, both serving as active members of UCLG and UCLG-ASPAC. Over the past decade, the two cities have collaborated on tourism, youth, and other exchange programs. In 2013, the two cities signed an agreement to promote metropolitan tourism exchange, and in 2023, they further formalized their relationship through a friendship exchange agreement, thereby strengthening their partnership.

In March of this year, Mayor Nakano led a delegation to participate in the 2025 Smart City Summit & Expo. In May, Deputy Mayor of Hamamatsu Yutaka Yamana also headed a delegation to attend both the Taipei International Cities Forum and the opening ceremony of the 2025 World Masters Games Taipei–New Taipei. These visits reflect the strong engagement and friendship between Taipei and Hamamatsu.

During the meeting, Mayor Chiang stated that Taipei City is committed to promoting international intercity exchange and that LIFT serves as an exemplary model of educational cooperation. Since its inception, LIFT has successively expanded to include a junior high school division and multiple classes. Plans have also been formulated to establish a ninth grade and a high school division within the next 2 years. This expansion not only seeks to meet the educational needs of French families residing in Taiwan but also is expected to attract both local and international students, showcasing the city’s achievements in educational diversification and internationalization.

Vice President Cadic expressed strong affirmation of LIFT’s development, emphasizing that its success not only represents a new milestone in the educational cooperation between Taiwan and France but also contributes to enhancing Taipei’s visibility on the international stage. He also extended a personal invitation to Mayor Chiang to attend LIFT’s first anniversary banquet scheduled for October, reflecting the value that the French Government attaches to this collaboration.

In terms of cultural exchange, Mayor Chiang shared his experience with participating in the Fête de la Musique in Paris in June of 2025. He introduced upcoming events in Taipei City, such as Nuit Blanche, to highlight the city’s commitment to becoming a culturally vibrant and internationally attractive metropolis. These efforts aim to further deepen the cooperation between Taiwan and France and to attract more French youth to Taiwan for study, internships, and exchanges.

Finally, Mayor Chiang emphasized that the Taipei City Government will continue to support the development of LIFT and strengthen the relations between Taiwan and France through educational and cultural exchange, with the goal of making Taipei City the top choice for international partners. On September 10, 2025, Vice President Cadic personally visited LIFT to observe classroom learning and gain a direct understanding of the institution’s operations. During the visit, he expressed his appreciation for the institution’s progress and achievements, and both parties highlighted strong expectations for future collaboration.

Mayor Chiang remarked that Taipei City and Tokyo share a close and long-standing relationship and have maintained regular interactions in recent years across various domains, such as disaster prevention and response, environmental sustainability, and challenges associated with declining birth rates. In May 2024, he led a delegation to Tokyo to participate in the SusHi Tech Tokyo Mayor’s Forum, where he held discussions on disaster preparedness with Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo. In June of 2025, he continued this dialog through an online meeting with Governor Koike and Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, focusing on the demographic problem of declining fertility. Mayor Chiang acknowledged the valuable insights gained from these exchanges, and he further commended Vice Governor Miyasaka for his professional experience at Yahoo Japan and his current role as Chair of the Executive Committee for SusHi Tech Tokyo: Global Startup Program. Mayor Chiang also noted that Miyasaka’s leadership has considerably advanced Tokyo’s digitalization and startup development, emphasizing his hope that the present exchange would further deepen bilateral cooperation in the fields of digitalization and startups.

Vice Governor Miyasaka expressed his appreciation to Mayor Chiang for personally receiving the delegation. He noted that since he assumed the role of Vice Governor of Tokyo 6 years ago, he has actively promoted digital transformation in government departments, fully recognizing it as a shared challenge among major cities worldwide. He also commended Taipei City for its notable achievements in the digital transformation of the public sector, and he expressed particular interest in gaining a deeper understanding of Taipei City’s digital policy strategies and implementation experiences, with the intention of using them as a reference for Tokyo’s own governance.

During the exchange, Mayor Chiang shared several tangible initiatives, including the digitization of official documents, the use of digital student identification cards to implement the Fresh Milk Weekly Report program, the integration of AI into the 1999 Citizen Hotline, and the formulation of the nation’s first set of guidelines on AI use. Commissioner Shih-Lung Chao of the Department of Information Technology also introduced the development and application of the TaipeiPASS system and used the Good Pregnancy Shuttle mobile app as an example to illustrate how the city government is leveraging public–private partnerships to create citizen-friendly services. Moreover, Vice Governor Miyasaka presented examples of digital applications managed autonomously by Tokyo’s transportation and sewage departments. He also revealed Tokyo’s plan to strengthen interdepartmental collaboration in future AI deployments to overcome the previous pattern of “working in isolation.”

With respect to startup development, Vice Governor Miyasaka expressed particular interest in Taipei City’s industrial policies. Commissioner Chun-An Chen of the Department of Economic Development explained that Taipei City is advancing its startup ecosystem through a three-pronged strategy focused on capital, talent, and testing grounds. He further announced that the largest startup park in Taiwan is scheduled to open in Nangang during the first half of the next year. This initiative is expected to foster a closer and more integrated startup ecosystem between Taipei City and Tokyo.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Mayor Chiang presented Vice Governor Miyasaka, who is an enthusiast of hiking and outdoor activities, with a photography collection created by Po-Lin Chi and a Taipei Grand Trail commemorative towel. He extended a warm invitation for Miyasaka to return to Taipei City in the future to personally experience the Taipei Grand Trail and appreciate the natural beauty of Taiwan’s mountain landscapes. Vice Governor Miyasaka expressed his sincere gratitude for the gifts and conveyed his curiosity regarding the trail’s length and related information.

After the meeting, the Tokyo delegation visited the Taipei Urban Intelligence Center and proceeded to a focused discussion session at the Department of Information Technology, where Commissioner Chao personally responded to questions from the visiting delegation. These exchanges provided the delegation with a more in-depth understanding of Taipei City’s concrete achievements in digital governance in the public sector. Vice Governor Miyasaka emphasized his hope to maintain close contact with the Department of Information Technology and to continue advancing cooperation between the two cities to collectively address the challenges of the digital era.

Mayor Chiang began by extending a sincere welcome to the visiting delegation. He noted that the sister-state relationship between Taiwan and Arizona was established in 1980 and that Taipei City and Phoenix, the capital of Arizona, have maintained a sister-city relationship for 46 years. He remarked that this long-standing connection signifies a deep bond between the two cities. Mayor Chiang shared that he had met with Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego on separate occasions both in 2024 and in 2025, and he expressed his enthusiasm toward recent cooperation, including the establishment of direct flights between the two cities and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s ongoing investment projects in Arizona. In addition, he conveyed his appreciation to the Arizona State Legislature for passing a pro-Taiwan resolution earlier this year, which voices support for Taiwan’s participation in international organizations. These efforts demonstrated the strong friendship between Arizona and Taiwan.

Mayor Chiang further noted that, in an effort to expand Taiwan’s procurement opportunities with the United States, the Taipei City Government would host a city business opportunity matchmaking forum on September 16, 2025. He expressed hope that members of the Arizona State Legislature would assist in inviting enterprises from Arizona to visit Taipei City for investment exploration, in an effort to deepen bilateral economic and trade exchanges. Mayor Chiang also shared specific examples of the city government’s application of artificial intelligence in municipal governance. Given that many of the visiting state legislators were visiting Taiwan for the first time, Mayor Chiang took the opportunity to introduce Taipei’s famous attractions and night market delicacies, once again extending a sincere welcome for the delegation members to personally experience the charm of Taipei.

Tony Rivero, Chairman of the State and International Affairs Committee of the Arizona House of Representatives and head of the delegation, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Mayor Chiang and the Taipei City Government for taking the time to host the visit. He stated that the delegation’s trip to Taiwan aimed not only to enhance trade and economic cooperation but also to strengthen diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Having led delegations to various countries, Chairman Rivero emphasized that Taiwan held particular importance. He further stressed that both chambers of the Arizona State Legislature are strong supporters of Taiwan. In terms of tariffs, he indicated that the Arizona State Legislature is willing to convey to the Trump administration a strong recommendation to lower the currently provisional 20% tariff on goods from Taiwan. Chairman Rivero also highlighted the great value that Arizona places on its sister-state relationship with Taiwan and affirmed that the state would continue to support and maintain friendly relations. Several other state legislators in the delegation also praised Taiwan as a beautiful country with warm and hospitable people. The two parties engaged in extensive discussions on artificial intelligence, urban resilience, city governance, energy, and economic and trade relations. The dialog was marked by a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.

To conclude the visit, Mayor Chiang presented Chairman Rivero with a gold-embossed reproduction of the painting Prosperity on South Street, explaining that the bustling commercial scene depicted in it symbolizes Taipei City’s long-standing identity as a diverse, open, and opportunity-rich city. The gift conveyed Taipei City’s commitment to strengthening multifaceted exchanges, including economic, trade, and cultural cooperation, with both the State of Arizona and the City of Phoenix, as well as its enduring goodwill toward its sister-state and sister-city relationships.

Mayor Chiang noted that this was his fifth time receiving a delegation from the Youth Division of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party since taking office, and his second time meeting with the overseas training delegation since last summer, underscoring the increasingly close bilateral exchanges between his administration and the Youth Division. During the meeting, the delegation members enthusiastically asked about Taipei City’s strategies for addressing low birthrates and its aging population, as well as how the city encourages young people to participate in public affairs.

Regarding the challenge of declining birthrates, Mayor Chiang explained that the city government has promoted policies such as the “Good Pregnancy Shuttle,” “Milk for Every Class,” “Women and Children Specialty Hospitals,” and “Happy Housing” to assist younger generations with childcare and housing and gradually increase the city’s birthrate. Simultaneously, the city government has adopted a policy of “intergenerational inclusion,” promoting specialized sports centers in each administrative district and creating a more comprehensive health-care environment for older individuals.

Mayor Chiang also noted that the city government encourages young people to engage in public affairs and increases their involvement in policymaking through the Department for Youth and a participatory budgeting mechanism. In terms of education, Taipei City also promotes science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics courses and trilingual education (mother tongue, a second language, and a programming language) to inspire students’ interest in science and technology and conform to international development trends.

Director Nakasone observed that Japanese young people face rising prices and challenges associated with parenting. He expressed hope that through this visit, they could learn from Taipei City’s policy experience. He also remarked that the opportunity to exchange ideas with Mayor Chiang, who belongs to the younger generation himself, was deeply inspiring for the members of the delegation.

After the meeting, Mayor Chiang presented Director Nakasone—a Yomiuri Giants fan—with a “Yomiuri Giants × CTBC Brothers” T-shirt as a special gift. Mayor Chiang explained that this commemorative item was a limited-edition product launched in collaboration with the CTBC Brothers during the Yomiuri Giants’ 90th anniversary celebratory game at the Taipei Dome. The word “Brother” printed on the T-shirt symbolizes the friendship between the two parties and signifies the lasting friendship between Taiwan and Japan.

The city government noted that this exchange deepened dialogue between Taiwanese and Japanese young people on public policy, education, and social concerns and reflected their enduring friendship. Looking ahead, both parties will continue to promote bilateral cooperation and jointly seek solutions to generational challenges.

This year’s WCS was themed “Livable & Sustainable Cities: Local Solutions, Global Impact” and featured five subforums for mayors. Deputy Mayor Chang spoke during the session on “Providing Reliable and Efficient Municipal Services,” sharing how Taipei uses digital technology to construct intergenerational smart service systems. He highlighted three policies—“Fresh Milk Weekly,” “TaipeiPASS (MetroPass),” and the “Carbon Reduction Savings Account”—to demonstrate Taipei’s practical efforts in advancing smart services and realizing the vision of a livable, sustainable city. His presentation was well received by both the organizer and participants, with Singapore’s representatives praising Taipei’s achievements in smart city development.

During the summit, Deputy Mayor Chang also paid a visit to Hong Tat Chee, Singapore’s Minister for National Development and the event’s host, to personally express Taipei’s heartfelt appreciation for Singapore’s longstanding invitations and support.

At the forum, Deputy Mayor Chang engaged in dialogues and exchanges with Kuala Lumpur Mayor and former Executive Director Maimunah Mohd Sharif of the UN-Habitat as well as several city leaders and representatives from Taipei’s partner cities, such as Mayor Michael Ludwig of Vienna, Mayor Low Yen Ling of Singapore’s South West District, Deputy Mayor Tom Copley of London, Mayor Se-hoon Oh of Seoul, and Mayor Soichiro Takashima of Fukuoka. He invited them to visit Taipei to strengthen the city’s global presence through international city-to-city engagement.

Additionally, the host city of Vienna arranged visits for participating delegates to several iconic social housing and urban renewal sites, including the renowned Seestadt Aspern. After the visit, Deputy Mayor Chang was interviewed by Austrian media and stated that he was deeply inspired by Vienna’s approach of treating housing as a fundamental social right. He expressed his intention to bring Vienna’s integrated housing and urban renewal policies to Taipei as valuable references to enhance Taipei’s housing policy planning and execution to create a more livable, equitable, and sustainable urban environment.

The 10th WCS was held in Vienna, Austria, from July 2 to 4, 2025. Vienna is also the recipient of the 2020 Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize. Launched by Singapore in 2008, the WCS is a platform for city leaders and experts worldwide to exchange insights. Its core programs include the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize and the WCS Mayors Forum, with each summit hosted alternately in Singapore or a winning international city. Taipei has participated in WCS events for several years—most recently in 2023, when Mayor Chiang led a delegation to Seoul and delivered a keynote speech at the summit.

On July 1, Deputy Mayor Chang first visited Sensoneo, an innovative tech company focusing on smart waste management and recycling systems. He held discussions with Sensoneo CEO Martin Basila, Deputy CEO Peter Knaz—whose wife is Taiwanese —and other senior executives. Deputy Mayor Chang remarked that since the implementation of Taipei’s designated garbage bag policy, the city has reduced overall waste volume and increased recycling rates, highlighting the tangible benefits of Taipei’s urban governance. He noted that Taipei would continue to adopt smart city applications, such as smart recycling, data management, and waste collection route optimization, to enhance environmental quality and operational efficiency. He expressed his hopes for deeper, multifaceted exchanges and cooperation between the two cities to enhance resilience and sustainability.

Later that day, Deputy Mayor Chang and his delegation, accompanied by an architect from Bratislava Old Town’s Strategic Project Management Department, observed the Eurovea City integrated urban development project. Urban design expert Martin Zaiček guided the tour, presenting historical photographs and design plans and explaining the area’s transformation process. A surface tramline is also planned. The experience of this development site could serve as a reference for Taipei’s brownfield redevelopment and waterfront planning projects.

On July 2, Deputy Mayor Chang led a joint delegation of the Taipei City Government and Taipei City Council—comprising Acting Delegation Leader Councilor Hsin-I Wang, Councilor Chih-Ping Wang, and Councilor Chih-Hao Chang—to the Versailles City Government in France. Versailles City Deputy Mayor Florence Mellor received the Taipei delegation on behalf of the Versailles City Government and invited them to the Versailles City Council Chamber to warmly welcome their visit. Both sides reaffirmed their 39-year sister-city relationship and exchanged views on topics such as cultural exchange, demonstrating a strong willingness to deepen their cooperation.

Deputy Mayor Chang stated that Mayor Wan-An Chiang had asked him to visit Versailles prior to attending the World Cities Summit Mayors Forum in Vienna, underscoring Mayor Chiang’s emphasis on the sister-city relationship between Taipei and Versailles. He hoped to learn from France’s cultural development policies and continue to deepen the bilateral exchanges between the two cities. Deputy Mayor Mellor responded positively, saying that she would convey the message to Versailles Mayor François de Mazières and continue promoting ongoing exchanges between the two cities. 

Deputy Mayor Chang shared that this visit marked his first time in Versailles and also in France. Before meeting with Deputy Mayor Mellor, he toured the Palace of Versailles and was deeply impressed by the splendor of Louis XIV’s era and the city’s artistic and cultural achievements. He also mentioned that since 2016, Taipei has participated annually in Paris’ “Nuit Blanche” (White Night) event, and has launched its own signature cultural events such as “Trendy Taipei.” He sincerely welcomed artists from Versailles and across France to participate in these events, and expressed hopes for future cultural exchanges with Versailles to strengthen the sister-city bond.

Deputy Mayor Chang concluded by saying that next year would mark the 40th anniversary of the sister-city relationship between Taipei and Versailles. He wished Mayor de Mazières and his team continued success in public service and ongoing recognition from citizens, and extended a warm invitation for Mayor de Mazières and Versailles city delegations to visit Taipei to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their sisterhood. Deputy Mayor Mellor expressed her gratitude for the invitation.

Versailles became Taipei’s first sister city in Europe on June 21, 1986, when then-Taipei Mayor Hsu Shui-Teh and then-Versailles Mayor Andre Damien signed a sister-city agreement, establishing the foundation for bilateral exchanges between the two cities. The current visit by the Taipei City Government and Taipei City Council marked the first time in 10 years that Taipei has visited Versailles, renewing the enduring friendship between the two cities.

The Taipei City delegation of nine arrived at the Vienna International Airport early in the morning of June 30 and immediately traveled to Bratislava. Representatives from Taipei and Bratislava Old Town gathered at the Zichy Palace, a historical site constructed in the late 18th century, where the MoU signing ceremony took place in the presence of Nan-Yang Lee, representative of the Taipei Representative Office in Slovakia; and Slovak National Council Member Dana Kleinert. The ceremony was simple yet solemn.

Deputy Mayor Chang indicated that through this MoU, the two cities would engage in concrete exchanges and cooperation in fields such as urban renewal, environmental protection, culture, transportation, sustainability, smart cities, investment, trade, tourism, and innovative industries, yielding mutual benefits for their citizens. He also expressed his hopes to further deepen Taiwan–Slovakia bilateral relations and foster lasting friendship between Taipei and Bratislava Old Town, as well as between Taiwan and Slovakia. 

Mayor Vagač warmly welcomed the Taipei delegation and highlighted the longstanding relationship between the two cities that is grounded in shared values: a commitment to freedom and democracy, the promotion of cultural exchanges, and a common goal of improving the quality of life of citizens. He noted that this was not merely the beginning of cooperation but rather a mature and enduring partnership based on trust, shared values, and mutual cultural respect.

Mayor Vagač observed that the MoU provides a framework for more extensive future cooperation between the two cities in multiple areas, from the exchange of public governance experiences to urban resilience projects, sustainable transportation and environment, innovative development, smart solutions, and cultural promotion. He expressed particular appreciation for the inspiration that Taipei has brought to Bratislava Old Town in these fields, from its innovative approaches in public governance to applications of smart city technology or the city’s ability to seamlessly integrate modern technology with cultural heritage. In addition to Mayor Vagač, the Bratislava Old Town delegation at the meeting and signing ceremony included 10 city government members, such as National Council Member (and former Deputy Mayor of Bratislava Old Town) Dana Kleinert and Deputy Secretaries General Petra Helt and Marcel Varenits. Following the ceremony, Mayor Vagač hosted a welcome banquet for Deputy Mayor Chang and his delegation, where the two sides dined in a warm and cordial atmosphere. 

The signing of this MoU was made possible by an exchange in March of this year, when Bratislava Old Town Deputy Mayor Erik Illéš led a delegation to Taipei to attend the Smart City Summit & Expo and paid a courtesy visit to the Taipei City Government, during which the two sides reached a preliminary consensus on future cooperation. After close communication, Taipei arranged a return visit, and in little more than 3 months, the two cities signed the MoU, demonstrating their strong commitment to proactive collaboration. 

With the assistance of the Taipei Representative Office in Slovakia, Deputy Mayor Chang and his delegation also visited a long-time friend of Taiwan, Bratislava Regional Governor Juraj Droba. The meeting was pleasant and engaging. Governor Droba, who has visited Taiwan five times, warmly welcomed Deputy Mayor Chang’s invitation to return to Taipei, expressing strong interest in further exchanges with Mayor Wan-An Chiang in areas such as youth entrepreneurship hubs and artificial intelligence innovation. He also stated that he hoped to invite Mayor Chiang to visit Bratislava to exchange ideas in these fields.

Known humorously as a “Taiwan expert,” Governor Droba joked that his frequent visits to Taiwan had piqued his wife’s curiosity about the island’s charm, so he promised to bring her with him on his next visit. Although he was scheduled to depart for an official overseas visit on July 1, he made a special effort to meet with Deputy Mayor Chang the day before his departure, underscoring his commitment to deepening cooperation and exchanges with Taipei.

The summit was opened by Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, who invited President of the European Council António Costa and former French Prime Minister Laurent Fabius, who also holds the Presidency of the 21st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change—informally known as the Paris Agreement—to deliver remarks. Mayor Hidalgo noted that the gathering of city leaders and international experts and scholars commemorated the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Paris Agreement and sought to transform commitments into concrete policies and actions. She emphasized that global warming is a severe challenge faced by all countries, and hoped that through this conference, greater consensus could be established to jointly discover concrete solutions to climate change.

As the only speaker from Asia, Mayor Chiang shared in the forum how Taipei City has integrated sustainability into citizens’ daily lives. He observed that Taipei’s substantial progress in sustainable governance stems from two simple yet highly influential changes: the reform of waste disposal methods and the transformation of transportation habits.

Mayor Chiang hummed the familiar melody of “Für Elise” at the venue. He said that in Taipei, when citizens hear this melody in the evening, they know it is time to take out the trash. People head out carrying blue, government-designated garbage bags, throwing out trash and greeting their neighbors—and this small daily ritual reflects a profound cultural transformation. 

He explained that Taipei City began with a “Keep Trash Off the Ground” policy, which stipulates that garbage trucks collect waste only at fixed times and locations each day, and citizens are not allowed to discard garbage at will. Subsequently, a “Per Bag Trash Collection Fee” was implemented, which requires residents to pay for and use government-issued garbage bags for waste disposal, whereas recycling remains free of charge. This “pay-as-you-throw” system encourages citizens to reduce waste because the less they throw away, the more money they save. The policy has produced remarkable results: household waste has decreased by 65%, and each citizen now produces less than half a kilogram of garbage per day. The recycling rate has increased from 2% to over 66%, saving Taipei City more than US$400 million annually in waste treatment costs.

Regarding transportation policy, Mayor Chiang noted that the Taipei Metro, with 2 million daily riders, ranks among the most reliable systems globally.  Taipei’s YouBike system is similar to the Vélib’ system in Paris. Mayor Chiang shared that since taking office, he has promoted a policy offering the first 30 minutes of YouBike rides for free, which has considerably increased YouBike use and encouraged one-quarter of users to shift from driving or riding motorcycles to using shared bicycles.

Mayor Chiang also revealed that the Taipei City Government will invest more than US$600 million this year in climate action, including toward the full electrification of public buses by 2030 and continued expansion of the metro network. He also enthusiastically shared that Taipei will host a major global smart transportation event—the ITS World Congress—in 2029, and sincerely invited mayors from all participating countries to visit Taipei at that time to witness firsthand how the city translates policy into practice and drives change through concrete actions.

Mayor Chiang expressed his gratitude for the establishment of the Paris Agreement, affirming that this international accord has provided clear and actionable guidelines for cities such as Taipei. He remarked that Taipei is the first city in Taiwan to pass a “Self-Government Ordinance for the Management of Net-Zero Emissions” and has set clear targets to reduce carbon emissions by 40% by 2030, 65% by 2040, and 100% by 2050, achieving net-zero carbon emissions.

Mayor Chiang also shared that in May, NVIDIA announced that it had chosen Taipei as the site of its first global overseas headquarters, “The Constellation.” This new headquarters will not only bring employment, investment, and innovation to Taipei but also raises another thought-provoking question: “Can we achieve economic growth without increasing carbon emissions?” Mayor Chiang firmly stated that Taipei’s answer is “Yes.” The city government is developing Beitou Shilin Technology Park into a comprehensive net-zero model zone featuring low-carbon buildings, wind corridor designs, and sustainable infrastructure. The Constellation will be located within this zone, serving as a symbol of Taipei’s technological vision and as proof of the possibility and feasibility of “green growth.”

In addition to his forum presentation, Mayor Chiang also engaged in multiple side exchanges—from the welcome dinner on the eve of the summit to the events on June 23—with leaders such as London Mayor Sadiq Khan, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, former Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Brussels Mayor Philippe Close, and Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante. After Mayor Chiang concluded his forum remarks, several mayors and expert representatives expressed their recognition, among whom Utrecht Mayor Sharon Dijksma highly praised Taipei’s practical approaches and impressive results. In addition to expressing his gratitude, Mayor Chiang presented Taipei promotional brochures to the participating representatives.

Senator Cadic recounted his visit to Taiwan with Vice Chair Joseph, noting that despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, they were determined to make the journey. He appreciated Mayor Chiang for supporting LIFT’s expansion into secondary education. Senator Cadic shared that he visited Taipei last year specifically to convey his gratitude in person. He praised Taipei for its consistently warm and generous hospitality toward visiting delegations and thanked Mayor Chiang for his unwavering support, which enabled smooth progress in the school’s development.

Mayor Chiang expressed his great honor at being received by the French Senate, stating that he met with Senator Cadic twice in Taipei and that their discussions were warm and engaging. With a smile, Mayor Chiang recalled promising the Senator that he would one day return the visit to France and expressed his pleasure at having fulfilled his promise. He praised Senator Cadic for his dynamic presence in both Taipei and Paris and recounted how, during their first meeting, the idea of expanding LIFT to include a secondary division was discussed. Mayor Chiang had immediately pledged his full support. Thanks to the collective efforts of both sides, the school’s expansion was successfully completed even before Senator Cadic’s visit to Taipei the following year. Mayor Chiang emphasized that LIFT stands as a symbol of the strong, enduring friendship between Taiwan and France and reaffirmed his commitment to fostering further progress and expanding opportunities for exchange between the two countries.

Vice Chair Joseph shared her previous experiences of visiting Taiwan, particularly recalling her impression of a traditional Taiwanese glove puppetry performance. She noted that her electoral district in Paris hosts an annual puppet festival every September and expressed hope to invite a Taiwanese troupe to perform in France as a means to deepen cultural and artistic exchange. In response, Mayor Chiang voiced his support, highlighting that Taipei is home to several renowned glove puppetry masters. He added that the city also looks forward to collaborating with Paris in various cultural domains, such as music, the arts, and film, and pledged to instruct the Department of Cultural Affairs to promptly devise concrete plans for future cooperation upon his return to Taipei.

Vice Chair Devésa remarked that she had previously met with Mayor Chiang and had been deeply impressed by the fruitful cooperation between Taipei and Paris. She highlighted numerous areas where both cities can learn from each other and expressed hope for continued exchange and collaboration.

After the meeting, Senator Cadic personally accompanied Mayor Chiang and his delegation on a guided tour of the Senate. As they passed a mural from the era of Napoleon III, Senator Cadic humorously called it “the earliest Facebook,” noting the display of Napoleon III’s portrait, Napoleon I’s portrait, and the plebiscite vote count, likening it to modern-day follower counts on social media. The group also viewed a rare copy of the Constitution of the Fifth Republic and attended a live session of the Senate. Standing by the grand windows of the Senate library and looking out over the Luxembourg Garden, Mayor Chiang reflected sentimentally that he had visited the same location 12 years ago with his wife. He added that the scenery remained just as beautiful and that this visit to the French Senate had now added a new and meaningful chapter to that cherished memory.

Mayor Chiang began the day at the Vanves flea market, where he paused to appreciate a variety of paintings, utensils, furniture, and vintage toys. He was particularly intrigued by a collection of yellow French postal van models and Michelin Guide editions published from 1934 to 1935. He commented that these vintage items bear the imprint of time, having likely passed through various countries and generations before finding renewed value at the market—now cherished by artists and travelers alike. Mayor Chiang praised Paris for its “culture of cherishing objects,” noting its alignment with the sustainability ethos emphasized in the tenth anniversary of the Paris Agreement. He also mentioned that Taipei’s Department of Environmental Protection has, in recent years, promoted recycled furniture showrooms, which not only reduce the amount of waste generated but also embody the principle of resource reuse. Looking ahead, he expressed hope for the emergence of more vintage markets in Taipei, offering citizens opportunities to reconnect with everyday objects and rediscover warmth and memory in their lives.

Next, Mayor Chiang visited the area in front of Hôtel de Ville to experience the local Vélib shared bicycle system. He noted that the bicycles are similar to Taipei’s YouBike, featuring adjustable seats and gear mechanisms. However, he was particularly impressed by Paris’s clearly marked bike lanes and median strips separating two-way traffic—measures that considerably enhance rider safety and comfort. He also commended Vélib’s incentive program during peak hours, which encourages users to return bicycles to designated docking stations, thereby improving vehicle distribution and system efficiency. He mentioned that this approach warrants consideration by Taipei’s Department of Transportation. Mayor Chiang further shared that since the beginning of his administration, Taipei has implemented a “first 30 minutes free” policy for YouBike users, which has encouraged approximately 25% of all residents to use public transportation instead of private vehicles. He plans to present this achievement at the upcoming Summit of Mayors in Paris.

Finally, Mayor Chiang and his delegation visited a low-traffic zone in the Marais district, where they observed local police enforcing traffic regulations onsite. He noted that access restrictions have been in place since November 2023, effectively balancing residents’ convenience with environmental sustainability goals. He especially commended Paris’s traffic signage, which uses clear, concise icons instead of lengthy text, enabling drivers to recognize changes early and reroute accordingly. This approach not only improves traffic efficiency but also enhances the urban aesthetic. Mayor Chiang emphasized that Taipei, in its efforts to promote human-centered transportation and revitalize historic neighborhoods, can draw valuable lessons from Paris as it continues working toward becoming a walkable and livable city.

Deputy Mayor Romero-Michel, who had visited Taipei in October last year, welcomed Mayor Chiang. They engaged in in-depth discussions on various urban cultural topics, such as the music festival, Nuit Blanche, and the LGBTQ+ Pride Parade. Romero-Michel noted that this year’s festival featured the rare opening of the mayor’s office to the public—a gesture previously mirrored by Taipei during its Nuit Blanche two years ago, which was met with enthusiastic acclaim from the public. He also expressed gratitude to the Taipei City Government for nominating Sih-cheng Du, Secretary-General of the Taiwan Tongzhi (LGBTQ+) Hotline Association, to serve as a jury member for the City of Paris Prize for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people. Romero-Michel further mentioned the upcoming Pride Parade in Paris and expressed hopes for deeper cooperation between Paris and Taipei. As a symbolic gesture of solidarity and friendship, a drag queen placed a rainbow heart sticker on Mayor Chiang to indicate support for equality.

Mayor Hidalgo also attended the event and warmly welcomed Mayor Chiang. Reflecting on his previous visit to Paris 12 years ago, which he made with his wife, Mayor Chiang noted the city’s remarkable transformation. He expressed particular admiration for the well-maintained streets and thoughtful urban planning , which he saw as a demonstration of the City of Paris administration’s exemplary governance. Hidalgo introduced her municipal team and extended a warm welcome to the Taipei delegation.

Next, Mayor Chiang and his delegation, guided by Deputy Mayor Romero-Michel and Kitty Hartl, proceeded to the festival’s main venue at the Jardin des Tuileries (Tuileries Garden). Immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of live music and artistic expression, Mayor Chiang joined the crowd in singing, engaged directly with citizens, immersing himself in the authentic rhythm of Parisian culture.

Mayor Chiang concluded by thanking Deputy Mayor Romero-Michel and Kitty Hartl for their warm hospitality, which enabled the Taipei delegation to experience the freedom, diversity, and creativity that are hallmarks of Parisian urban culture on the eve of Fête de la Musique. He also invited the Paris municipal team to visit Taipei, with the hope of deepening cultural exchange and fostering friendship and collaboration between the two cities.

Upon arriving at the site, Mayor Chiang and his delegation were warmly welcomed by Deputy Mayor Ngatcha, who expressed his pleasure at reuniting with Chiang following their earlier encounter at the SusHiTech Summit in Tokyo last year. Deputy Mayor Gonzalez provided a detailed introduction to the Adidas Arena, which is equipped with 9,000 spectator seats and features an energy-efficient air conditioning system that employs geothermal energy to regulate indoor temperature. In addition to serving the venue itself, the system supplies energy to the surrounding communities and commercial facilities. The arena’s design implements the concept of environmental sustainability throughout. The flooring is constructed from timber certified under the European Union’s sustainable forest standards, and approximately 70 metric tons of recycled plastic bottle caps were used to manufacture all seating, underscoring the facility’s commitment to resource reuse and sustainability. Furthermore, the arena features a Sensory Room designed to accommodate individuals with sensory impairments or anxiety disorders by offering a space for emotional regulation, exemplifying inclusive design for diverse user groups.

Two auxiliary facilities are located adjacent to the main arena, designated respectively as a multifunctional sports court and a basketball court. Each is equipped with its own independent entrance and exit, facilitating effective crowd control during large-scale events. Deputy Mayor Gonzalez explained that because of the surrounding area’s concentration of social housing and economically disadvantaged residents, the arena is not solely used for sporting events; it is also open to local residents during nonevent periods. This approach embodies the principle of shared municipal infrastructure and community access.

Mayor Chiang noted that Taipei City is currently planning the construction of a badminton arena constructed to international competition standards. The first floor is designed to include 10 courts designated for practice and warm-up, and the second floor is expected to house 5 competition courts and 2 warm-up courts, with a total seating capacity of 6,000 to meet international competition standards. He emphasized that the future facility in Taipei will serve as a venue for competitions and as a multipurpose sports complex. Drawing on the experience of the Adidas Arena, Mayor Chiang hopes to enhance the flexibility and functionality of the space to accommodate diverse uses. Mayor Chiang instructed the Taipei City Government to maintain active engagement with its counterparts in Paris to gain a deeper understanding of their comprehensive planning and operational models, which will serve as a crucial reference for Taipei’s future development.

In addition to the visiting the arena, Mayor Chiang engaged in in-depth discussions with Deputy Mayor Gonzalez regarding the local social housing system. Since 2001, the City of Paris has actively promoted social housing policies, increasing the citywide percentage of such housing from 12% to 25%, with the 18th arrondissement increasing the percentage of social housing from 11% to 26% during this period. France’s social housing system is structured according to income tiers, serving not only low-income households but also the middle class. These housing units are constructed to standards equal to or exceeding those of private residences to ensure the quality of living environments. The application process employs an anonymous numbering system whereby a distribution committee evaluates and reviews applications on the basis of income, family circumstances, and other criteria.

Deputy Mayor Gonzalez noted that approximately 280,000 individuals are currently registered on the social housing waitlist in Paris, with 17,000 of those residing in the 18th arrondissement. However, only approximately 200 units become available each year, rendering the disparity between supply and demand a persistent challenge. In response, Mayor Chiang shared that Taipei City’s current social housing allocation system is based on a lottery mechanism. He emphasized that the quality of Taipei’s newly constructed social housing is on par with that of private residences. He also extended a sincere invitation to the Paris municipal team to visit Taipei for further exchange and collaboration. Deputy Mayor Gonzalez expressed his anticipation for increased interaction and cooperation in the future.

Levallois is one of the most densely populated areas in France, with 44 hectares of green space throughout the city and greenery everywhere to be seen. Levallois also ranks among the top four cities in France for public safety, has created more than 60,000 jobs, and attracts numerous commuters from outside the city, exemplifying high livability and economic resilience.

During this exchange, Mayor Pottier-Dumas shared the key achievements of her administration. She noted that Levallois adopts a dual-track urban planning strategy, advancing environmental progress through the simultaneous use of regulatory restrictions and incentive mechanisms. This strategy strictly limits building heights and population density, and mandates the inclusion of green spaces in all new constructions. The strategy also increases coordination between development projects and the city government by introducing land development guidelines and negotiation mechanisms that encourage developers to incorporate greening and sustainability elements at the design stage, establishing a mutually beneficial planning model. 

Mayor Pottier-Dumas added that the city government allocates an environmental protection budget each year and classifies projects on the basis of their influence on the environment. For example, projects with environmental benefits such as park construction are given priority support, whereas purchases of fuel-powered vehicles are cautiously considered. The city also sets loans at preferential interest rates for pro-environmental initiatives, accelerating the implementation of green policies. Mayor Pottier-Dumas also introduced the city’s practices in promoting biodiversity and adopting geothermal energy.

In response to Mayor Chiang’s concern regarding how the city balances job creation with green space preservation, Mayor Dumas replied that although the French central government recommended converting idle commercial office spaces for residential use, she declined to do so because she did not wish to increase population density and compromise the city’s livability. She emphasized that all future new buildings in Levallois must include rooftop gardens, promoting the integrated development of urban greenery and quality of life.1

Mayor Chiang also noted that he had visited Adidas Arena earlier that morning, where he observed the use of geothermal energy for heating and cooling at the venue. He expressed his hope to learn from Levallois's experience. Mayor Dumas explained that geothermal technology was developed 40 years ago but had only recently been applied. Her current technical director, who is from another city that successfully implemented geothermal systems, leveraged their expertise to promote comprehensive transformation in Levallois. Levallois utilizes underground thermal energy and recycles waste heat from data centers for residential heating, which reduces carbon emissions and lowers energy costs by approximately 30%. Mayor Pottier-Dumas noted that local conditions would only require drilling to a depth of approximately 1,500 m to access 60°C hot water, which will be distributed through an underground pipe network. The construction of this network is scheduled to begin next year.

During the exchange, Shyh-Shiun Shyu, Taipei’s Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection, expressed particular interest in Levallois’s policies of bird protection and ecological balance. He shared Taipei’s efforts in wetland restoration and vector mosquito control. Mayor Pottier-Dumas stated that Levallois avoids the use of chemical sprays, instead relying on mechanical methods for mosquito control. The city also schedules tree trimming outside of bird breeding seasons to ensure the integrity of the ecosystem. The two parties thus engaged in a cordial exchange and looked forward to maintaining their connections and expanding cooperation.

Mayor Chiang indicated that he would present Taipei City’s recent achievements in the areas of environmental governance, net-zero carbon emissions, and green transportation during the summit to demonstrate the city’s efforts and accomplishments in advancing sustainable urban development. In addition to participating in the summit, the itinerary also includes official visits with representatives from key cities such as Paris, London, Barcelona, and Rio de Janeiro, as well as a meeting at the French Senate with the Vice Chair of the Committee of Foreign Affairs, Defence and Armed Forces to deepen bilateral exchanges.

Mayor Chiang emphasized that this visit also served as a crucial opportunity for international outreach, through which Taipei’s cultural and artistic assets, technological industries, and achievements in urban governance could be introduced to the global community. He expressed his hope that this initiative would further introduce Taipei to the global community and enhance the international visibility of the city.

This trip had been planned as a critical international exchange mission. The delegation is scheduled to return to Taipei on June 25th. During the visit, close coordination will be maintained with the Taipei City Government to ensure the uninterrupted operations of the city administration.

On-site, Mosman Masters presented a jersey to Mayor Chiang as a token of enduring friendship between the City of Gold Coast and Taipei City. Mayor Chiang expressed his great honor in attending the event and cheering for the athletes. He warmly welcomed Mayor Tate and his team to Taiwan, emphasizing the deep and long-standing friendship and exchanges between Taiwan and Australia. Mayor Chiang stated that the core spirit of the World Masters Games 2025 Taipei & New Taipei City is “sports beyond age, life without limits.” Through events like this, he hopes to encourage public participation in sports and promote lifelong sport engagement.

In closing, Mayor Chiang wished all athletes the best, encouraging them to give it their all and enjoy the match. He also expressed his hope that everyone would leave Taipei with wonderful memories.

Deputy Mayor Chang indicated that since Taipei and Vilnius became sister cities in 1998, the two cities have maintained close interactions in education and culture. He highlighted the valuable insights Deputy Mayor Mitalas shared at the forum, particularly regarding the concept of “city as a learning environment.” Deputy Mayor Chang also introduced the current policy regarding the “Ten Great Educational Initiatives of Taipei City” and its international pen pal programs, expressing hope for future practical cooperation in areas such as teacher–student exchanges, educational technology, and youth empowerment.

In his meetings with the delegations from Ganei Tikva and Dimona, Deputy Mayor Chang expressed his appreciation for the mayors’ concrete support of Taipei’s hosting of the World Masters Games and International Cities Forum. The delegations also actively visited the Emergency Operations Center of Taipei City, Traffic Information Center, and t.Hub Taipei to gain an in-depth understanding of Taipei’s practices in smart governance and sustainable development. He further stated that Taipei City has already initiated educational travel and international pen pal programs with Israeli cities, and he encouraged more schools to participate in the programs to enhance cross-cultural understanding and communication among the youths of Taipei city and the two Israeli cities.

Deputy Mayor Chang concluded by expressing his hopes for continued expansion of cooperation with Lithuanian and Israeli cities in education, technology, sports, and culture. He also welcomed the three cities’ participation in events such as the Taipei Smart City Summit & Expo, Taipei Marathon, and Taipei International Dragon Boat Championships , jointly building a diverse, innovative, and globally connected network of friendship.

Mayor Chiang first welcomed Mayor Hirosawa for personally attending the opening ceremony of the World Masters Games. Mayor Chiang noted that a visit by former commissioner of the Department for Youth of Taipei City Government, Wei Yin, to Nagoya this past February signaled an opportunity for bilateral exchanges and cooperation between the two cities. On May 16, the Department for Youth and Nagoya City University signed a memorandum of understanding at the Taipei City Hall, paving the way for an international internship program with Nagoya City University starting next year. Mayor Chiang expressed his hope for further collaboration between the two cities in youth exchanges. He also congratulated Nagoya on hosting the upcoming 2026 Asian Games and looked forward to deepening cooperation in the areas of sport promotion, event experience exchanges, and cultural tourism.

Mayor Hirosawa thanked Mayor Chiang for taking time out of his busy schedule to meet with the delegation. Having just been elected Mayor of Nagoya in November last year, this marked his first visit to Taiwan in his new role. He expressed his best wishes for the success of the World Masters Games opening on May 17 and warmly invited Mayor Chiang to visit Nagoya next year to attend the 2026 Asian Games. Mayor Hirosawa humorously added that he enjoys brewing pour-over coffee and looks forward to welcoming Mayor Chiang to his home. Chairman Kori expressed his gratitude for the signing of the memorandum of understanding with the Department for Youth. Councilor Fujita also warmly invited Mayor Chiang to visit Nagoya, expressing his wishes for continued and deepening friendship between the two cities.

During his meeting with Mayor Martinez, Mayor Chiang noted that although the two cities are geographically distant, they share many common values in urban governance. Mayor Martinez’s dedication to childcare, women’s protection, and family-friendly policies closely aligns with Taipei City’s initiatives in parenting support and child healthcare subsidies. Mayor Chiang also praised Mayor Martinez’s excellent presentation at the Taipei International Cities Forum and looked forward to the concrete future cooperation in social welfare policies, culture, and sustainable development between the two cities.

Regarding the visit from the Organizing Committee of the World Masters Games 2027 Kansai , Mayor Chiang extended a sincere welcome and thanked the governors of Kyoto Prefecture, Hyogo Prefecture, Tottori Prefecture, Osaka Prefecture, and Shiga Prefecture for their support of World Masters Games 2025 Taipei & New Taipei City. He emphasized that this year’s World Masters Games are the first to be held in Asia and have drawn more than 25,000 athletes from around the world. He believes these games embody the spirit of “sports beyond age, life without limits.” Mayor Chiang himself participated in the squash and softball competitions, underscoring the city’s commitment to sport exchanges. With Kansai scheduled to host the next World Masters Games in 2027, the exchanges and city visits will lay a solid foundation for future cooperation in sport promotion, tourism marketing, volunteer training, and sustainable strategies.

Mayor Chiang concluded by stating that through this meeting and related exchanges, Taipei City will continue to expand its cooperation with its international sister cities in the areas of education, culture, sports, and urban governance. The aim is to create a more diverse, friendly, and globally connected living environment for all citizens.

After this introduction, Mayor Chiang delivered a brief speech in English introducing Taipei City’s major policies. He explained that the Taipei City Government believes building a healthy city involves enabling residents to live with both physical and mental freedom. He also pointed out that genuine health for Taipei’s residents means having the freedom to leave their homes, engage with others, and live in comfort and with dignity.

Mayor Chiang noted that, earlier this year, Time Out magazine ranked Taipei as having the fifth most efficient public transportation system in the world. Over the past several years, Taipei Metro has ranked first in terms of global reliability six times. Public transportation can be regarded as the “beating heart” of Taipei City. However, what truly extends the transportation network into every alley and neighborhood is Taipei’s bike-sharing system, YouBike. Riding a bicycle is a symbol of a healthy lifestyle.

During his speech, Mayor Chiang explained that the Taipei City Government launched a new policy in 2024 offering the first 30 minutes of each YouBike ride free of charge. This initiative not only helped residents save money but also served as a crucial component of the “last mile of green commuting,” enabling citizens to leave their homes and adopt healthier lifestyles. The real innovation in this approach lies not merely in providing free rides but in ensuring the consistent availability of bikes during peak demand periods. In response, the city government implemented a real-time data dashboard to monitor vehicle movement at each station, dynamically dispatch bikes, and initiate new rounds of bike procurement and station expansion on the basis of real-time demand. These efforts yielded substantial results. For example, the daily number of YouBike rides increased from 126,000 to 191,000, representing a 51% increase. According to surveys, one-quarter of users reported that this policy encouraged them to switch from driving or riding scooters to using YouBike. These changes reflect not only a shift in transportation modes but also a transformation in daily lifestyle habits. 

During the forum, Mayor Chiang stated that the city’s focus on health spans all age groups, with a particular emphasis on the youngest generation. For instance, the city launched the “Weekly Milk Program—Milk for Every Student,” a policy under which students in Taipei can receive one free bottle of milk each week at any convenience store simply by swiping their student ID card. At the event, he also held up a carton of milk and said to the attendees, “Ladies and gentlemen, today I have also prepared milk—let us raise our glasses and say cheers!”

Mayor Chiang further noted that Taipei’s weekly milk program constitutes a form of digital innovation. Taiwan has the second-highest density of convenience stores worldwide. In collaboration with convenience store operators and through integration with the EasyCard system, the Taipei City Government developed a digital platform capable of managing identity verification, inventory tracking, and cold-chain distribution. Within the first month of the policy’s implementation, students in Taipei consumed approximately 600,000 bottles of milk. According to surveys, 87% of respondents who were aware of the policy expressed their support. The weekly milk program marks only the first step. In the future, the Taipei City Government plans to use the same system to distribute nutrition packages for pregnant women, emergency supplies, and additional resources, enabling municipal services to directly reach communities and individual households—without queues or waiting—thereby truly achieving a people-centered approach.

Mayor Chiang stated that exercise is a key component of a healthy city. Since 1999, the Taipei City Government has constructed a sports center in each administrative district. Currently, the total annual number of visits to all sports centers in Taipei City exceeds 8.7 million, and this number is projected to surpass 10 million in 2026. The Taipei City Government is still constructing new sports centers, incorporating smart technologies and inclusive design principles. For example, the soon-to-open Ganggong Sports Center will utilize artificial intelligence technology for baseball training analysis, and the Xinsheng Sports Center, scheduled to open in 2026, will feature a fully accessible design, enabling those with disabilities to exercise with ease and comfort. Overall, the city’s government is advancing a healthy city concept through an inclusive, diverse, and innovative approach.

Mayor Chiang further noted that, according to the United Kingdom’s Institute for Quality of Life, which releases the Happy City Index, Taipei City jumped from 46th place in 2024 to 8th place in 2025, an achievement that reflects years of effort by the city. Urban governance requires continual innovation and evolution. As expressed by the slogan of the 2025 World Masters Games—“Sports Beyond Age: Life Without limits”—Mayor Chiang and the participating mayors and city representatives share the same mission: to enable citizens, regardless of their age, background, or gender, to live healthily, happily, and freely. In closing, he once again expressed his gratitude to the attendees and extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests visiting Taipei City.

During his meeting with Tom Tate, Mayor of the Gold Coast , Mayor Chiang expressed his appreciation for Mayor Tate’s fourth delegation visit to Taiwan and for his personal participation in this year’s World Masters Games rugby competition, demonstrating his dedication to sports diplomacy and intercity collaboration. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to advancing cooperation in areas such as education, smart cities, green energy, and youth exchange while also promoting a shared culture of urban sports. 

In his meeting with Rajendran P. Anthony, Mayor of City Council of Penang Island , Mayor Chiang highlighted that, since the establishment of a sister city relationship in 2011, the two cities have maintained strong exchange relations in areas such as culture and disaster prevention. In 2024, the Deputy Mayor of Penang Island visited Taipei City to participate in an international seminar on urban disaster prevention. The meeting further confirmed plans to expand cooperation in areas such as tourism promotion, age-friendly city policies, and community health initiatives.

During his meeting with Phoenix Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien, Mayor Chiang reflected on the long-standing sister city relationship established in 1979 and acknowledged achievements in exchanges involving medical technology, education, and the cultural and creative industries. During this meeting, the two parties discussed industrial chain integration and two-way youth talent exchange, following Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s expansion of investment in the United States. They both agreed to explore further strategic cooperation projects in the future. 

During his meeting with Alex Yam, Mayor of the Northwest District of Singapore, Mayor Chiang mentioned that he had led a delegation to Singapore in 2023. This visit facilitated dialog and learning in areas such as residential planning, accessible transportation, and urban governance. In this last meeting, the two parties agreed to cooperate on topics such as health promotion and community care, with the goal of jointly advancing toward a happy and sustainable city.

Mayor Chiang stated that all cities involved are either long-standing sister cities of Taipei or international partner cities with which Taipei maintains close relations. These meetings and dialogs have not only deepened bilateral city-to-city relations but also demonstrated the shared commitment of these cities to enhance public well-being through cooperation in sports, culture, and governance. During his speech, Mayor Chiang sincerely invited all cities to continue participating in international events hosted by Taipei City, with the goal of promoting a model of global urban exchange and cooperation. 

During his meeting with Mayor Shinju Yamaguchi of Kasama City, Deputy Mayor Chang expressed his appreciation for the city’s long-term participation in events such as the CKS Shilin Residence Chrysanthemum Festival and Taipei Lantern Festival. He also acknowledged that the signing of a comprehensive agreement between the two cities in 2023 has led to even closer interactions between the two cities. Mayor Yamaguchi’s personal visit and participation in the forum highlight the longstanding friendship between Taipei City and Kasama City.

In his meeting with Deputy Mayor Yutaka Yamana of Hamamatsu City, Deputy Mayor Chang recalled the vibrant and multifaceted interactions between the two cities since 2009, including their exchanges regarding the Flora Exposition, music and tourism industry events, net-zero initiatives, and youth exchanges. He noted that Mayor Yusuke Nakano of Hamamatsu also personally led a delegation to the Smart City Summit & Expo in Taipei this March. The aforesaid endeavors have reflected a strong alignment in the two cities’ shared goals of digital and net-zero transformation. Future efforts between the two cities will focus on strengthening their strategic and practical cooperation.

While meeting with Mayor Takashi Nanba of Shizuoka City, Deputy Mayor Chang recognized the ongoing exchanges between the two cities that began with collaboration on a marathon event. Since the signing of a memorandum of understanding on friendly city exchanges in 2023, both cities have expanded their collaboration to tourism, education, and digital governance. Mayor Nanba’s return visit with a delegation demonstrates the importance Shizuoka City places on its relationship with Taipei.

Deputy Mayor Chang stated that Kasama City, Hamamatsu City, and Shizuoka City are all long-standing and important partners of Taipei City. Their participation in the World Masters Games and International Cities Forum not only fosters city diplomacy and international understanding but also lays a solid foundation for deepening cooperation in the future.

Mayor Wan-An Chiang began by warmly welcoming Mayor Jack and his delegation on their return visit to Taiwan. He noted that Taipei and Majuro had established their sister-city relationship in 1999 and that the 26-year-long friendship is deeply cherished by both cities. Mayor Chiang expressed particular appreciation for Mayor Jack’s consistent support of Taipei’s international events, highlighting his participation in the 2017 Summer Universiade, the 2023 Taiwan Lantern Festival in Taipei, and the 2025 Smart City Summit & Expo. Mayor Jack’s presence at these events has added distinction and visibility to Taipei’s international engagements.

Mayor Chiang further reflected on the close cooperation between the two cities. He recalled that Taipei’s Department of Environmental Protection donated a large garbage compactor truck to Majuro City in both 2013 and again in 2021 to assist with that city’s waste management and environmental cleanliness efforts. He also emphasized the cultural connection between Taiwan and the Marshall Islands, noting that both nations’ indigenous peoples have languages belonging to the Austronesian language family. Taipei places strong emphasis on promoting indigenous rights and cultural heritage, as exemplified by the city’s establishment of the Indigenous Peoples Commission and its pioneering role in launching the nationwide “August 1 Indigenous Peoples Week” initiative. Mayor Chiang also extended an invitation to Mayor Jack and his delegation to return in May 2025, when Taipei and New Taipei City will co-host the World Masters Games, and expressed hope for their continued participation and collaboration.

In his remarks, Mayor Jack expressed his sincere gratitude on behalf of the citizens of Majuro for Mayor Chiang’s warm welcome and hospitality. He noted that the delegation had gained valuable insights from the Smart City Summit & Expo in Taipei, which has served as a strong source of inspiration for Majuro’s future development and innovation efforts. He also extended an invitation to Mayor Chiang to visit Majuro City at his convenience to further strengthen the cities’ collaboration.

Majuro City Councilors Betty Imaikta and Darrel Malachi also responded to Mayor Chiang by praising Taipei as a beautiful city with warm and hospitable people and commended the city’s diverse and delicious cuisine. They expressed their hope for future opportunities to visit Taipei. The meeting concluded in a cordial atmosphere with a mutual exchange of gifts and group photographs.

On the evening of March 20, Deputy Mayor Wen-Te Chang hosted a banquet on behalf of Mayor Chiang to welcome Mayor Jack and his delegation. The two parties continued discussions on enhancing the cooperation in various fields between Taipei and Majuro. Mayor Jack reiterated his appreciation for the genuine hospitality and thoughtful reception extended by the Taipei City Government, stating that each of his visits had been rewarding. He also expressed hope that the Taipei City Government would organize a return delegation to the Marshall Islands in the near future so that Majuro might reciprocate and offer warm hospitality in kind. The banquet lasted approximately two hours, unfolding in a warm and joyful atmosphere.

Taipei and Belmopan formally established their sister-city ties in 2019, with Taipei becoming Belmopan’s first sister city. Despite the considerable geographical distance between the two cities, their bilateral exchanges have been frequent and meaningful. In 2019, the then-Mayor Khalid Belisle traveled to Taipei to sign the sister-city agreement in person. His successor, Sheran Palacio, participated in Taipei’s Smart City Summit both virtually and in person on two occasions. Mayor Cawich, who assumed office in 2024, personally led a delegation to attend the 2025 Taipei Smart City Summit. Mayor Chiang expressed deep appreciation for Belmopan’s consistent support of Taipei’s international initiatives. He extended a warm invitation to Mayor Cawich to return to Taipei in May to attend the upcoming World Masters Games, further enhancing opportunities for exchange and collaboration between the two cities.

Mayor Pablo Cawich stated that his visit to the Smart City Summit & Expo had been an eye-opening experience, and he expressed great interest in incorporating several of the innovative technologies showcased at the exhibition into Belmopan’s municipal service systems. He further noted that although Belmopan had recently launched a geographic information system (GIS), the city continued to face considerable challenges in its implementation due to the limited development of the city’s digital infrastructure. During the meeting, he directly sought advice from the Taipei delegation. In response, Commissioner Huai-Tsu Mo of the Taipei City Fire Department affirmed the city’s willingness to share its experience and knowledge with Belmopan. Mayor Cawich also brought attention to his city’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its climate resilience and flood prevention measures. In reply, Commissioner Shyh-Shiun Shyu of the Department of Environmental Protection elaborated on Taipei’s current strategies for addressing climate change and achieving net-zero emissions, offering potential areas for an exchange of knowledge between the two cities.

In addition, Mayor Cawich expressed sincere appreciation for Taipei City’s donation of a fire truck in 2021, noting that the vehicle had significantly enhanced Belmopan’s emergency response capabilities and helped save numerous lives. He inquired whether Taipei might consider donating additional firefighting equipment as Belmopan upgrades its systems. Commissioner Mo responded that the city would review its existing resources and, when feasible, provide further assistance to its sister city.

Mayor Chiang took the opportunity to formally invite Mayor Cawich to lead a delegation in May to participate in the World Masters Games hosted in Taipei. In return, Mayor Cawich extended an invitation to Mayor Chiang to visit Belmopan on a future date. Mayor Chiang noted that he had heard Belize was a remarkably beautiful country and that if he had the opportunity, he would like to visit Belmopan with his family.

The meeting concluded with an exchange of gifts and group photos in a cordial and friendly atmosphere. Later that evening, Deputy Mayor Wen-Te Chang of Taipei hosted a banquet on behalf of Mayor Chiang in honor of Mayor Cawich and his delegation. The two sides further discussed possibilities for expanding their cooperation in various sectors. During the event, Mayor Cawich and his spouse shared that their two sons currently live and study in Taipei and expressed heartfelt gratitude for the scholarship support and care they had received from the Taiwanese government and Taipei City. The dinner lasted approximately two and a half hours and was marked by a warm and congenial spirit.

Mayor Chiang noted that the friendly city county agreement between Taipei and Montgomery County, established during this summit, symbolizes the beginning of a deeper bilateral friendship and marks the launch of a new chapter in cooperation. Montgomery County, the most populous county in Maryland, is adjacent to the US capital, Washington, D.C., and is home to numerous federal government agencies. The county has highly developed biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and information technology sectors and considerable ethnic diversity. Mayor Chiang expressed hope for further exchange and collaboration between the two regions in the years ahead.

Mayor Chiang stated that the summit had brought together leaders from various sectors to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and public–private collaboration can enhance the smartness and livability of cities. He emphasized that Taipei has long been a leader in smart city development and that, in recent years, the city has leveraged big data, the Internet of Things, and AI technologies to optimize public services in domains such as traffic management, health care, and urban governance. As an example, he noted that Taipei uses AI to analyze real-time traffic flow, enabling dynamic traffic signal control to effectively reduce congestion and improve the efficiency of commuting. AI has also been employed to assist in medical diagnoses, shortening patient wait times and enhancing the utilization of health-care resources. Additionally, the city has used AI to enhance governmental responsiveness and administrative efficiency—a notable case being the 1999 Citizen Hotline, which successfully integrates AI to improve service delivery.

Mayor Chiang underscored that these achievements were made possible through strong public–private partnerships, in which government agencies provide data access and policy support and enterprises contribute technological innovation. He stressed that in the process to become a smart city, the focus should not solely be on technological advancement but must remain people-centered. The development of AI must adhere to ethical standards, prioritizing privacy protection, social inclusiveness, and high quality of life for all citizens. Mayor Chiang  noted that the summit marked only the beginning of a broader collaboration. Taipei City extends a sincere invitation to experts from all sectors to share their insights and visit the Taipei Pavilion at Nangang Exhibition Center Hall 2, which showcases the city’s latest achievements in technological applications—demonstrating Taipei’s commitment and accomplishments in its journey toward a smart city.

In closing, Mayor Chiang expressed hope that Taipei will continue to deepen its cooperation and exchange with Montgomery County, Maryland, and with cities worldwide. He concluded with the phrase “AI in Taipei, because T-A-I-P-E-I!” and once again warmly welcomed all attendees and thanked them for participating in the event.

Mayor Chiang began by welcoming the visiting delegation and expressing gratitude to President Eto and members of Nikka Giin Kondankai (Japan-R. O. C. Diet Members’ Consultative Council) for their warm hospitality during his visit to Japan in May of the previous year. He recalled that during a breakfast at the Club, President Eto shared his experience as a student in an exchange program at Tunghai University, reflecting President Eto’s deep affinity for Taiwan. Mayor Chiang further stated that since assuming office, he has been actively promoting exchanges between Taipei City and various Japanese cities. Because Taiwan and Japan uphold the universal values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, he expressed his confidence that bilateral exchanges across various sectors would become increasingly robust and seamless.

In response, President Eto conveyed his appreciation to Mayor Chiang for taking the time to meet with him despite his demanding schedule. President Eto remarked that it was an honor to reunite with Mayor Chiang at Taipei City Hall following their meeting in May of the previous year. He further noted that the Japan–Taiwan Friendship Association has long fostered exchanges with Taiwanese society that extend beyond the political sphere to involve interactions in the economic, social, cultural, artistic, and athletic domains. Additionally, the association has actively conveyed to Japanese society the value of Taiwan’s contributions to Japan in areas such as economic and trade relations. President Eto also underscored the importance of youth exchanges between Taiwan and Japan, expressing his hope that Mayor Chiang would continue to support such initiatives.

During the meeting, Mayor Chiang engaged in discussions with President Eto and members of the Council on strategies to address urban–rural disparities. Regarding the challenge of urban–rural inequality in Taiwan and Japan, Mayor Chiang emphasized the critical role of equitable resource allocation. He proposed three key approaches to reduce inequitable resource allocation: improving transportation infrastructure, strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises, and enhancing vocational education training. Improving transportation infrastructure can increase accessibility in rural areas, contributing to local employment opportunities and mitigating urban–rural disparities. Both parties also exchanged their perspectives on Japan’s current policies concerning children, youth exchange initiatives, and demographic challenges such as low birth rates and an aging population. Finally, they shared the strategies and practices implemented in each of their respective country to address these challenges.

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.

Mayor Chiang warmly welcomed Minister Aitaro and the delegation, expressing his gratitude to Chairman Wei-li Hsueh, a Taiwanese businessman, for facilitating the visit. Mayor Chiang highlighted the 26-year diplomatic ties between Palau and Taiwan and acknowledged Minister Aitaro’s frequent visits since taking office, underscoring the strong bilateral relations between the two countries. Mayor Chiang also expressed his hope for continued collaboration and exchanges in technology, smart cities, and other fields. 

Mayor Chiang recalled that in 2021, Taipei City Government’s Department of Environmental Protection donated two large garbage compactors to the Koror Government to assist with waste management. Mayor Chiang also emphasized the importance of deepening existing partnerships in environmental sustainability, smart cities, and tourism, and extended invitations to Minister Aitaro to attend the Taipei Lantern Festival in February, the Smart City Summit & Expo in March—one of the largest events of its kind in Asia—and the World Masters Games 2025 Taipei & New Taipei City in May.

Norman Ngiratecheboet, the Governor of Airai State and a member of the delegation, delivered remarks on behalf of Minister Aitaro. Representing two Palauan states and their people, Governor Ngiratecheboet thanked Mayor Chiang for meeting with them. He noted that in addition to their scheduled visits, they had met with Taipei Environmental Protection Commissioner Shyh-shiun Shyu and other longstanding acquaintances. Governor Ngiratecheboet also expressed his appreciation to Ambassador Orrukem for arranging for Taiwanese business representatives to visit Palau, fostering new connections. He extended a sincere invitation to Mayor Chiang to visit Palau in hopes of creating further opportunities for collaboration. 

Rudimch, the Governor of Koror, echoed Mayor Chiang’s sentiments, expressing gratitude for Taipei City’s donation of the two garbage compactors in 2021, which considerably improved local waste management. He proposed establishing a sister-city relationship between Koror and Taipei. Mayor Chiang welcomed the idea, stating that any form of cooperation, partnership, or sister-city agreement was open for discussion.

The meeting ended in a spirit of harmony, with both parties exchanging gifts and taking photos.

Mayor Chiang noted that Representative Arif Sulistiyo assumed office on October 24, 2024. His visit to Taipei marks a return to a familiar city and symbolizes the deepening relationship between Taipei and Indonesia. In recent years, official and civilian exchanges between Taiwan and Indonesia have grown increasingly frequent. According to Taiwan’s National Immigration Agency, approximately 250,000 Indonesian expatriates currently reside in Taiwan; this is the largest expatriate population of all Asian countries, and nearly 32,000 of these individuals live in Taipei. To create a diverse and inclusive international city, the Taipei City Government has implemented inclusive policies to safeguard the rights and well-being of Indonesian migrant workers, students, and residents.

Mayor Chiang emphasized Taipei City’s long-standing commitment to promoting a Muslim-friendly environment. Muslims constitute approximately 24.1% of the global population, and Indonesia is home to the world’s largest Muslim population. In consideration of this, the city government has guided over 70 hotels and tourist attractions in obtaining Muslim-friendly certification. In 2023, Taipei was honored with the “Most Promising Muslim-Friendly City Destination of the Year (Non-OIC)” award by CrescentRating, a renowned international Muslim travel promotion company. This recognition highlights the city’s efforts toward and achievements in fostering a more inclusive environment.

Mayor Chiang also highlighted that the annual Eid al-Fitr celebration, hosted by the Taipei City Government, has become a signature event of the city. Each year, it attracts many Indonesian expatriates and has received strong support from the Indonesian Economic and Trade Office. During his visit, Representative Arif Sulistiyo will discuss cohosting the 2025 Eid al-Fitr event with the city government to contribute to help Taipei develop this festival into a symbol of its cultural inclusivity.

Mayor Chiang expressed his delight in participating in this dynamic and friendly international woodball tournament. Addressing the diplomats in attendance, he introduced woodball as a sport invented in Taiwan that is deeply rooted in local culture. He explained that the size of the ball was inspired by handrail spheres on staircases, and the design of the gate poles was derived from Taiwanese beer bottles. Additionally, the swivel motion when passing through the gate resembles a flipping wine glass, symbolizing a toast to success for the players. Woodball embodies Taiwan’s cultural identity, and Chiang hopes that the 2025 World Masters Games will provide an opportunity to promote this sport, which is enjoyed by all generations.

Mayor Chiang further noted that the 2025 World Masters Games, set to take place in May, has already attracted over 31,000 registered participants. With the final registration deadline approaching on February 17, he urged diplomatic representatives to help promote the event and encourage more international athletes to join. He also highlighted that participants will have the chance to explore Taiwan’s diverse attractions, including Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, and Yilan, during their stay.

As the Lunar New Year approaches, Mayor Chiang also extended his warmest holiday greetings to the diplomats attending the event.