State Senator Tony Hwang joined international dignitaries, lawmakers, and community leaders on April 29 at the Connecticut–Taiwan Sister State Anniversary Reception held at the State Capitol. The event marked 27 years of partnership between Connecticut and Taiwan.
The gathering highlighted the significance of cultural exchange, educational collaboration, and economic cooperation between the two regions. Organizers said these areas have strengthened ties and brought mutual benefits to both communities.
As a featured speaker, Hwang reflected on his own immigrant experience from Taiwan. “I came to this country from Taiwan when I was 9 years old, and my heritage has always been a source of pride,” Hwang said. “Today is not only about Taiwan’s presence in Connecticut, but about the opportunity for so many in our community to take pride in what defines our relationship: cultural exchange, educational collaboration, and economic opportunity.”
Taiwanese Ambassador Tom Chih-Chiang Lee also addressed attendees about the ongoing partnership. “We are very honored to be here again and thankful to everyone who made this event possible. Over the years, Taiwan and Connecticut have worked very hard to deepen our sister-state relationship, and it continues to grow stronger through our shared efforts.
“Taiwan has been working closely with the United States and Connecticut to strengthen our partnership, especially in economic cooperation. Taiwan is a key partner, particularly in technology and manufacturing, and we are a very good match with the United States in innovation and development,” Lee said.
Hwang discussed how cultural connections broaden understanding while educational partnerships foster innovation through academic exchange. He noted that economic ties position Connecticut to benefit from Taiwan’s leadership in technology sectors such as semiconductor production: “Taiwan is a world leader in innovation, particularly in semiconductor production. Connecticut stands to benefit from a strong and collaborative partnership that supports economic growth and shared opportunity.”
Hwang also spoke about democratic values as an important link between Taiwan, Connecticut, and the U.S.: “Taiwan is a vibrant, functioning democracy. As Americans and as Connecticut residents, we should continue to support democratic values and the voice of the people. Those are what make us who we are and drive our economic success.”
State Representative Christie Carpino attended alongside other lawmakers; she emphasized lasting cultural bonds: “I was struck by how similar our cultures are: how much we value family, friendship, and working together to make our communities better. In a world connected by technology, it still matters that Taiwan and Connecticut show up, stand together, and build strong personal relationships,” she said. “Having a strong democratic partner on the other side of the world is so important because we can work together to leverage strengths for the people we serve.”
