Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis in Taipei Celebrates Independence 42 with Back-to-Back Events Centering Students and Friends

Taipei, Republic of China (Taiwan), (September 23, 2025)— Students from Saint Kitts and Nevis showcased talent and culture at Independence 42 celebrations, followed by an event that saw many Taiwanese friends join in on the festivities.

The Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis to the Republic of China (Taiwan) hosted its first-ever Independence Patriotic Programme to commemorate the 42nd Anniversary of the Independence of the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis on Friday, September 19, 2025.

The programme showcased the rich cultural heritage of Saint Kitts and Nevis through performances by nationals, many of whom are students. The performances included traditional and contemporary elements such as folk songs, dance, masquerade and clown folklore, steelpan, drumming, poetry and spoken word, as well as a modelling showcase of national attire and costumes.

In his Independence remarks, His Excellency Donya L. Francis, Ambassador of Saint Kitts and Nevis to the Republic of China (Taiwan), reflected on this year’s theme, “Perpetual Progress: A Sustainable Future in View.”

“This year’s theme reminds us that independence is not only a moment in history but also a continuous journey. As a small island state, sustainability is not an option—it is a necessity. And that is why our government, led by Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, took a bold step to introduce and vigorously pursue a Sustainable Island State Agenda (SISA). Under the SISA, we are actively working to find solutions that will enable us to reach our goal by the year 2040,” Ambassador Francis stated.

He encouraged the students to acquire knowledge and skills in their respective fields, then return home to further advance the country’s Sustainable Island State Agenda.

Dr. Chen Ming-Chi, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan), presented remarks at the Independence Patriotic Programme on behalf of the Government and people of Taiwan.

Deputy Minister Chen highlighted the 42-year-old longstanding relationship between the two countries and applauded the successful partnerships in people empowerment, education, healthcare, and other areas. He thanked Saint Kitts and Nevis for its continued support of Taiwan and affirmed Taiwan’s commitment to assisting Saint Kitts and Nevis in its quest to become a more sustainable country, as both nations advance together in mutual respect and cooperation.

After the programme, attendees took a three-minute walk from the Diplomatic Quarter to Tianmu Tungxin Bridge, where the wider community witnessed the official launching of the Embassy’s Bridge display, aptly called the “Bridge of Celebrations”, which highlights the Federation’s 42 years of Independence and the 42-year strong diplomatic relationship between Saint Kitts and Nevis and the Republic of China (Taiwan).

Saint Kitts and Nevis and the Republic of China (Taiwan) established diplomatic relations in 1983, right after the Federation gained its Independence. The Bridge display runs from September to the end of October.

Mr. Chen Botong, Chief of Tian Shou Village, invited the Laicuo Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe to give an opening performance at the ceremony. Steel pannists, Kazrano Gumbs and Jacinth Hunkins gave a steel pan rendition representing the culture and music of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Ambassador Francis is steadfast in his goal to deepen the awareness of Saint Kitts and Nevis among Taiwan nationals and residents.

“May this bridge display bring our communities closer together, as every day when Tian Shou Villagers pass by, they can know that our country, while some distance away and small in size, is a longstanding, big friend to Taiwan,” Ambassador Francis said.

The special exhibition is jointly organised by the Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis and the Office of Tian Shou Village. It is proudly sponsored by President Mike Hung of Mike Hung Products Co, Ltd. Ambassador Francis, Mr. Chen and Mr. Hung cut the ribbon to mark the official launch of the bridge display, a meaningful moment of friendship and collaboration.

The Embassy extends heartfelt thanks to all attendees and contributors to the success of these events. In particular, the students are commended for their creativity in decorating the event space, preparing and delivering cultural performances, and providing valuable assistance throughout the Independence Day celebrations.