OT-2013
April 24, 2020
Remarks by AIT Director W. Brent Christensen
at MOFA Thermometer Donation Ceremony
April 24, 2020
Foreign Minister Wu, distinguished guests, ladies, and gentlemen, zao an!
It is my pleasure to stand here on behalf of the American people and say thank you once again for the generosity of the Taiwan people.
To date, Taiwan has confirmed just over 400 cases with minimal community spread in a population of 23 million people. International media and countries around the world have taken notice of Taiwan’s success and expressed interest in learning more.
From our perspective, the “Taiwan Model” offers five key lessons for the world which can perhaps be summarized as the “Five Ts”: Transparency, Transportation Controls, Tracking, Testing, and Technology.
Today, we could add a sixth T: Thermometers! Like many of you, I have had my temperature taken more times in the last two months than in the previous two years. So, I can testify first-hand of the quality of Taiwan’s thermometers.
Just a few decades ago, Taiwan was the recipient of aid from the outside. But now after Taiwan’s economic miracle and subsequent years of steady growth, Taiwan is now in a position to be a donor. Taiwan has stepped up to this challenge, both through private sector donations and through official assistance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
As Secretary Pompeo said, “During tough times, friends stick together,” and Taiwan has been a true friend to the United States during this pandemic. Taiwan’s display of generosity has given AIT and those back in Washington motivation and focus to continue our work during these challenging times.
We are so grateful for the donations of both face masks and now thermometers from the Taiwan government. Thank you from the American people who know that Taiwan can help.
