Sen. Hwang Highlights Cultural, Educational, & Economic Alliance at CT–Taiwan Sister State Anniversary

WATCH the press conference here.

View photos here.

State Sen. Tony Hwang (R-Fairfield) on April 29 joined international dignitaries, bipartisan lawmakers, and community leaders, at the Connecticut–Taiwan Sister State Anniversary Reception at the State Capitol, celebrating 27 years of partnership between Connecticut and Taiwan.

As a featured speaker, Sen. Hwang reflected on his personal connection to the immigrant experience and the importance of recognizing cultural identity and community contributions.

“I came to this country from Taiwan when I was 9 years old, and my heritage has always been a source of pride,” Sen. 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 expressed the importance of the alliance.

“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.

Sen. Hwang went on to speak about each of these pillars, noting the Connecticut – Taiwan cultural connections that broaden understanding, educational partnerships that foster innovation and academic exchange, and economic ties that position Connecticut to benefit from Taiwan’s global leadership in technology and manufacturing.

“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,” he said.

Sen. Hwang also highlighted the shared core value that unites Taiwan with not only Connecticut, but also 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 Rep. Christie Carpino (R-Cromwell) was one of several lawmakers in attendance and noted the strong cultural connection that will continue to bind Connecticut and Taiwan for years to come.

“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.”