- By Chen Yu-fu and Fion Khan / Staff reporter, with staff writer and CNA
About 65,000 Hong Kongers have obtained temporary residency in Taiwan since 2019, while more than 13,000 have qualified to settle here, making outstanding contributions to economic development and industries, Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Minister Chiu Chui-cheng (邱垂正) told the opening ceremony of the fourth Friends From Hong Kong Festival at Huashan 1914 Creative Park in Taipei yesterday.
Since 2019, many Hong Kongers have moved to Taiwan to study or start businesses, bringing their energy to the country, Chiu said.
Many of them are highly skilled professionals, and share a desire for a free and democratic way of life, as well as values of openness and diversity, he said.
A poster promoting the Friends From Hong Kong Festival is pictured in an undated photograph.Photo courtesy of the Taiwan-Hong KongEconomic and Cultural Co-operation Counc
Some of them might have initially arrived in Taiwan feeling uncertain and anxious about their futures, but have gradually adapted and settled down, he said.
They are giving back to Taiwan and even joining efforts to safeguard the country, he said.
The MAC and the Taiwan-Hong Kong Economic and Cultural Co-operation Council would continue to serve as a strong source of support for Hong Kongers seeking to build new lives in Taiwan, Chiu said.
The festival, organized by the council under the MAC’s guidance, helps Taiwanese gain a better understanding of Hong Kong and Macau culture while allowing the Hong Kong and Macau community in Taiwan to feel the warmth and support of local society, he said.
Last year’s market attracted a record 90,000 visitors over two days, Chiu said, adding that he believes this year’s event could break the record.
This year’s festival features 70 stalls operated by Hong Kong and Macau residents in Taiwan, inviting visitors to explore cultural exchanges through food, creative products, musical performances and interactive activities, the organizers said.