Bridging Nations: Vision for Global Advancement Innovation from Taiwan and Israel
Dear friends,
During my recent visit to Israel, I was honored to be the first person from Taiwan to make a presentation at a cross-party caucus in the Israeli Knesset, led by the esteemed Speaker of the Knesset. During this significant event, I conveyed Taiwan's unwavering support for Israel and underscored the profound economic and political similarities between our two nations. Both Taiwan and Israel are paragons of education, economic success, and vibrant democracy. Our countries stand as beacons of freedom and innovation, capable of learning from each other's achievements and experiences.
As I emphasized in my talk at the Israeli Knesset, by integrating the successes of Israel and Taiwan, we can elevate innovation and manufacturing to unprecedented levels, resulting in transformative advancements across various global disciplines. This collaboration has the potential to usher in dramatic improvements that will benefit the entire world.
On a social level, Taiwan is a flourishing free society and democracy, committed to building robust relationships with like-minded countries that share our social and political values, such as Israel. I assured the Knesset of our eagerness to strengthen our relationship, affirming that Taiwan is willing to go the extra mile to foster cooperation with fellow democracies. Together, we aim to create a better world for everyone.
In addition to this important presentation, I had the privilege ofmeeting with several influential figures. I met with the President of Israel,Isaac Herzog, to discuss the current status of the war in Israel, its repercussions on Israeli society, and how Jews living in the diaspora can further support the Jewish homeland. This meeting highlighted the shared concerns and responsibilities we face during challenging times.
I also visited the Chief Rabbi of Israel, Rabbi David Lau, on his last day of 11 years of service to express my gratitude for his dedicated efforts for the Jewish people around the world. Additionally, I met with Rabbi Kantor, the Chief Rabbi of Asia based in Thailand, during my time in Jerusalem.
Another very noteworthy and touching event was when, through the efforts of Abby Lee, the Taiwan representative to Israel, a street in Israel was named in honor of Taiwan, called Tainan-Taiwan Street. This gesture symbolizes the growing ties between our two nations. Be sure to take a stroll down this street if you visit Israel next time!
As with every visit to Jerusalem, it is essential to come to the Wailing Wall to pray, and this time was no exception. I went to this holy place to seek blessings for Taiwan, for Israel, and for all of humanity.
Observations on the U.S. Presidential Election: Taiwan's International Competitiveness in Light of the U.S. Election
As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, global attention is focused on this pivotal political event. The outcome of the U.S. presidential election will have profound implications for the global political and economic landscape, especially given the unpredictable nature of current international affairs. Many countries are closely monitoring the direction of U.S. policies. For Taiwan, located in a crucial position within the island chain, it is essential to understand the potential changes this election may bring to various nations.
To delve deeper into the many issues surrounding this election, Mr. Su Chi, Chairman of the Taipei Forum Foundation, collaborated with the College of Social Sciences at National Taiwan University to co-host an event titled "Observations on the U.S. Presidential Election." This forum provided a platform for experts and scholars from Taiwan's academic, political, business, and media sectors to engage in meaningful discussions and exchanges of ideas.
The forum featured speakers including Su Hong-da, Dean of the College of Social Sciences at NTU, Kuo Chong-lun, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the United Daily News, and He Sih-yin, Executive Director of the Taipei Forum. The speakers not only shared their insights but also conducted in-depth analyses and discussions on various aspects of the election, including candidates' policies, campaign strategies, and their potential impacts on international relations. Mr. Su Chi emphasized that Taiwan should strive to remain flexible in the international environment and actively seek various opportunities for cooperation.
During the forum, I also shared my personal views on the current situations regarding the U.S.-Taiwan relationship and Israel. Given the rapidly changing international landscape, I believe it is crucial for everyone to remain vigilant and make appropriate adjustments in business or political strategies to address each challenge. We should also actively collaborate with other countries, particularly in areas such as economics, technology, and sustainable development, where Taiwan excels. By establishing connections with the international community, we can enhance Taiwan's global competitiveness.
Tisha B'Av: Finding Hope Amidst Historical Sorrow
The month of Av in the Jewish year 5784 has arrived, and every year on the ninth day of Av, all Jews feel the sorrow of "Tisha B'Av," the day of the destruction of the Temples.
Tisha B'Av originated in 586 BCE when the Babylonian Empire conquered Jerusalem and destroyed the sacred First Temple. This day became an indelible shadow in Jewish history, marking the beginning of the Babylonian Exile, during which the Jewish people were forced to live in Babylon. About 70 years later, when the Jews finally escaped Babylonian rule, they were able to rebuild their homeland, restore traditional rituals, and most importantly—reconstruct the Temple. However, in 69 CE, the Roman Empire's army once again conquered Jerusalem and destroyed the sacred Second Temple. These two horrific calamities, separated by six hundred years, both occurred on the ninth of Av. The Jewish people were once again forced to leave their homeland, beginning a nearly two-thousand-year diaspora.
The destruction of the Temples not only affected the Jews of that time but also had a profound impact on future generations of the Jewish nation. In the absence of the Temple, Jews scattered across various lands began to establish synagogues as places for gathering, prayer, and study, which became the centers of daily life and faith for Jewish communities.
Each year when Tisha B'Av arrives, Jews fast, pray, chant elegies, and gather in synagogues for collective prayers and commemorative activities to mourn this painful history. To express their grief, activities associated with joy are prohibited on this day of mourning, including dressing festively, bathing, engaging in any form of marital intimacy, or giving gifts. On this day, we remember the lost Temple and the countless brethren who perished in wars. This is not only a remembrance of the past but also a hopeful anticipation for the future.
Although the sacred First and Second Temples no longer exist, the spirit of the Jewish people remains resilient. Each year on this day serves not only as a time of mourning but also as a reminder to cherish what we have and to learn from history, striving to ensure that the rich legacy of Jewish culture and tradition continues. All Jews can return to their beautiful homeland, rebuild their future, and, within communities around the world, continue to pass on this precious heritage, allowing the lessons of history to guide the future and ensuring that the light of hope never fades.
Warm Regards,
Jeffrey D. Schwartz & NaTang
Co-founders, Jewish Taiwan Cultural Association
