Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Republic of China (Taiwan)
February 14, 2023
MOFA Deputy Minister and IDIA Chancellor Tien Chung-kwang hosts opening ceremony for MOFA and OCAC new recruit training program
On behalf of Minister of Foreign Affairs Jaushieh Joseph Wu, Deputy Foreign Minister and Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (IDIA) Chancellor Tien Chung-kwang hosted the opening ceremony of this year’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) new recruit training program. The ceremony welcomed the 56th class of MOFA diplomatic personnel and the 20th class of MOFA administrative personnel, as well as OCAC personnel, on January 16. It was attended by Deputy Minister of the Civil Service Protection and Training Commission Lue Jen-der and OCAC Chief Secretary Chang Liang-min.
In his remarks at the ceremony, Deputy Minister Tien emphasized that diplomacy is not merely an occupation but a calling and that diplomats of the Republic of China (Taiwan) must be able to adapt to new environments. He encouraged the trainees to apply what they will learn in the program to the responsibilities of diplomatic work in order to become resilient modern diplomats. He also noted that cross-strait tensions are continuing to rise and that Taiwan’s diplomacy must adopt new elements and ways of thinking. Deputy Minister Tien enjoined the trainees to adhere to the diplomatic objectives set forth by President Tsai Ing-wen, which are to establish a correct sense of national statehood, act as a bridge between the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the world, wholeheartedly pursue national interests, and safeguard national sovereignty. He also urged them to be open to new information and differing viewpoints, develop critical-thinking skills, and cultivate a holistic and innovative mindset. These skills would be needed, he said, to counter China’s growing rhetorical, political, and military intimidation, as well as for addressing the dynamic challenges of diplomatic work.
This year’s training program boasts 48 trainees. Of these, MOFA’s 44 diplomatic personnel will receive six months of training. The two MOFA administrative personnel and the two OCAC personnel will receive four months. After successfully completing the training program, they will officially enter the foreign service. The training program will focus on deepening core diplomatic professional competencies and strengthening interdisciplinary knowledge.
Related pictures:
Deputy Minister Tien (front row, sixth from left), Deputy Minister Lue (fifth from left), and Chief Secretary Chang (fifth from right) pose for a group photo with the trainees.
Deputy Minister Tien (middle) delivers a speech at the opening ceremony.