Premier Mao Chi-kuo today commended central and local governments for working together to stage successful Taiwan Lantern Festivals each year. After hearing a report from the Ministry of Transportation and Communications' (MOTC) Tourism Bureau on preparations for this year's event (slated for March 5-15), Mao said cooperation between central and local authorities—with the MOTC arranging road and railway transportation and local governments doing their parts—has been beneficial for local economies.
The premier thanked all personnel for their hard work and urged the MOTC to promote the Taiwan Lantern Festival into an international event and create a multiplying effect for the tourism industry.
Mao also affirmed the participation of other government agencies, especially the Ministry of Justice's Agency of Corrections, which each year submits lanterns designed by inmates from Changhua. Their lanterns are always a highlight of the festival, even taking top honors, the premier said.
Premier Mao said he first organized the lantern festival at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall 26 years ago while serving as head of the Tourism Bureau. Originally named the Taipei Lantern Festival, it is intended to celebrate a traditional holiday in an international manner and enhance Taiwan's visibility. Now, the annual festival is held in different parts of Taiwan and attracts millions of local and increasing numbers of foreign tourists. It has even been featured on the Discovery Channel as one of the best festivals in the world.
The Taiwan Lantern Festival and the Taiwan International Orchid Show will soon be held in Taichung and Chiayi, respectively, and the premier encouraged all to join in the events. He asked the Bureau of High Speed Rail and local police to help move and control crowds at the high speed rail stations.
To connect Taiwan with the world and show Taiwan to the world, the Tourism Bureau's overseas branch offices have invited international media and travel agencies to the events, the MOTC said.