Canadian MP visits PCT during private tour of Taiwan
Reported by Sam Lee
Written by Lydia Ma
During a tour of PCT General Assembly Headquarter Office in Taipei on January 19, 2011, Canadian Member of Parliament (MP) Jim Abbott reiterated his support for Taiwan’s entry to international organizations. He also emphasized the two major differences between Taiwan and China: Democracy and human rights.
Abbott has served as an MP in the Canadian parliament since 1993 and is currently a Privy Councilor as well as the Chairman of Canada Taiwan Parliamentary Friendship Group.
In 2005, Abbott put forth a private member’s bill named “Taiwan Affairs Act” – a gesture reflecting his high regard for Canada-Taiwan relations. His visit this year is an affirmation of PCT’s contributions to Taiwan, and his willingness to work with PCT in promoting Taiwan in the international arena.
Though “Taiwan Affairs Act” was introduced in the 2004-2005 national parliamentary session, it failed to pass its second reading just before a general election was called.
Abbott’s private visit to Taiwan included meeting Kaohsiung city officials, meeting with Tainan Mayor William Lai, giving a lecture at Chang-Jung Christian University, making brief stops at Taiwan Church Press and Tainan Theological College and Seminary, meeting DPP Chairwoman Tsai Ing-wen, and meeting and dining with PCT General Assembly leaders.
Former Minister of National Defense and current Taiwan Justice Action Church Elder Tsai Ming-hsien accompanied Abbott during his tour of PCT Headquarter Office.
Tsai remarked to Taiwan Church News that the Canadian government’s concern for Taiwan is an apt illustration of worldwide concern for Taiwan’s future and security.
Making a private visit at a time when the Ma administration has opted to neglect national defense and international diplomacy, and while China’s President Hu Jintao visits President Obama, Abbott’s visit is an encouragement and acknowledgment of PCT and Taiwanese people’s efforts over the years in promoting Taiwan’s presence in the international arena.
