Speaking today at the 32nd Sino-Japanese Modern Engineering and Technology Symposium, Premier Lai Ching-te said that throughout the long history of the symposium, the cooperation between the Taipei-based Chinese Institute of Engineers (CIE) and their Japanese peers has been a winning endeavor for both sides. Extensive discussions and technical exchanges on topics ranging from disaster prevention, water resources, energy transformation and architecture have contributed greatly not only to Taiwan's economic build-up but also hopefully to Japan's, as well.
With 18 specialist groups covering 51 topics, the symposium and associated discourse on the main themes of renewable energy and sustainable development fit well with Taiwan's current needs, said the premier. The international community has in recent years been focused on the issues of resource scarcity, environmental protection and economic development, and the premier said that consensus has settled on the "circular economy" as the most effective solution to the three intertwined questions.
The CIE has a long history and collective experience across a broad range of disciplines, from mechanical, chemical and civil engineering to transportation and energy. Participation by industry, government, academia and researchers has enabled the institute to make foundational contributions to infrastructure and construction in Taiwan.
Premier Lai thanked the more than 50 specialists and academics visiting from Japan, and said that the discussions on the symposium's main themes would not just benefit the Executive Yuan in realizing President Tsai Ing-wen's vision, but also promote the continued advancement of engineering in Taiwan.
The Ministry of Transportation and Communications indicated that since the first Sino-Japanese Modern Engineering and Technology Symposium in 1980, this year's gathering marks the 32nd time that the CIE has invited Japanese engineering specialists to travel to Taiwan to exchange the latest developments in Japanese engineering applications and technology with local counterparts. The symposium has thus helped open channels for communications between both public and private-sector organizations in the two countries, as well as provided a platform for technical exchanges between people that encourage improved engineering technology and innovation.