Hualien Marks St. Vincent National Heroes' Day, Strengthening Global Friendship

(中央社訊息服務20260319 11:43:35)March 14 marks National Heroes' Day for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, a momentous occasion celebrated this year at the Hualien County Government. On Saturday, Ambassador-designate Kenton Xavier Chance joined approximately 60 students from across Taiwan to pay tribute to the historic figures who shaped the Caribbean nation’s history.

Lee Yu-Jen, Acting Director-General of the Research and Administration Department, welcomed guests on behalf of Mayor Hsu Chen-Wei. He took the opportunity to reiterate Hualien’s gratitude to the Embassy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines for its swift support following the April 3, 2024 earthquake. In the immediate aftermath, the embassy extended its solidarity through a letter of condolence and a heartfelt video message, alongside a generous donation of US$50,000. This helping hand, offered during one of Hualien’s darkest hours, remains a testament to the enduring bond between the two regions.

The Hualien County Government also reflected on the 2025 flooding of the Mataian River in Guangfu Township, where mudflows once devastated local homes. In a remarkable display of civic spirit, more than 500,000 volunteers known as the "Shovel Heroes" arrived from every corner of Taiwan to clear debris with their bare hands. Their collective action restored hope to broken communities and brought light back to the landscape. Hualien vows to never forget these stories of courage and love. The county maintains the firm belief that anyone can become a hero by choosing kindness, serving others, and refusing to falter in the face of exhaustion or disappointment.

The county government extended a warm welcome to Ambassador-designate Chance, Counsellor Shebby-Ann Dennie, and the community of Vincentian students in Taiwan. This year marks the fifth consecutive year that Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has chosen Hualien as the venue for its National Heroes Day. This tradition highlights a deep-rooted friendship and provides an ideal platform for bilateral cultural engagement.

During the ceremony, Acting Director-General Lee presented local specialty gifts to the guests, including Yuli Daylily Liquor, premium honey-scented black tea, and butter crisps. These tokens of hospitality underscored Hualien’s reputation as an internationally friendly city that actively facilitates cultural exchange with its diplomatic allies.

Ambassador-designate Chance said that March 14 is not only National Heroes Day in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, but also an important occasion to honor the traditional culture of the Garifuna people. The day commemorates Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer and all those who sacrificed their lives in the fight for freedom and justice. Their courage, he said, laid the foundation for the country’s core values of sovereignty, independence, and liberty, while helping create a better future for generations to come.

Chance also stressed the importance of understanding history, calling for continued respect for national identity and for the spirit and values upheld by those who fought for freedom. He also expressed sincere appreciation to the Hualien County Government for helping make the event possible.

The Hualien County Government stated that by fostering a spirit of global friendship, Hualien has successfully built a bridge for international dialogue. This National Heroes Day celebration was more than a tribute to the fallen. It was a shared affirmation of freedom, peace, and mutual respect between Hualien and the global community.