Photo：The new Association’s Board of Directors

The Japan Kansai Region Association of Alumni of Taiwanese Universities held its inaugural general assembly on April 27, 2014, attended by 60 Japanese alumni and guests. Speaking at the opening of this special occasion, Tsai Ming Yao, Director-General of TECO in Osaka, expressed his hopes that the Alumni Association will enhance mutual understanding and trust between the people of the Republic of China and the people of Japan, and welcomed Japanese tourism to Taiwan.

The articles of association, and executive office bearers were decided during the general assembly. President Okamoto who studied at Tunhai University will bring together alumni from all fields to promote exchanges between Taiwan and Japan. Vice-president Murakami, a graduate of National Taiwan University and an expert on the Taiwanese language, thanked the Ministry of Education for providing the scholarship that enabled him to complete his studies in Taiwan and expressed his hope to enhance bilateral friendly relations through alumni activities in return for the kindness he received from Taiwan. His heartfelt remarks drew strong applause from everyone. Professor Okazaki Ikuko from Kibi International University who has recently published "My Time Studying in Taiwan" crystallized many people’s feelings commenting that the time that each of the members of the new alumni association spent studying in Taiwan in their youth will always be full of beautiful memories.

A DVD of Taiwan was played as part of the event and tourist material was displayed to provide the alumni with the latest information about Taiwan. Mr. Chen, a Taiwanese erhu musician based in Osaka, was invited to play Taiwanese folk and popular songs. The wonderful music filled the venue with a warm and cheerful atmosphere.