The opening ceremony of “The 59th Diplomatic and Consular Officers, the 22nd Diplomatic Administrative Officers, and the Overseas Community Affairs Council(OCAC) Overseas Affairs Personnel Professional Training Program” was held on January 12, 2026, at the Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (IDIA). The ceremony was presided over by Deputy Foreign Minister and IDIA Chancellor, François Chihchung Wu, on behalf of Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung. Administrative Deputy Minister of the Civil Service Protection and Training Commission(CSPTC) Shiow-Cheun Hsu and OCAC Minister Chia-Ching Hsu also attended the ceremony.
In his remarks, Chancellor Wu pointed out that Taiwan's achievements in democracy, technology, and economic strength have been highly recognized internationally. Faced with China's continued military intimidation, diplomatic suppression, and gray-zone tactics aimed at undermining the regional status quo, Taiwan's diplomats bear the important mission of safeguarding peace and national security. The world will also continue to work hand in hand with Taiwan to maintain regional stability. Chancellor Wu encouraged the trainees to dedicate themselves to diplomatic work with professionalism, confidence, and unwavering commitment, to continuously expand international partnerships, and to contribute to shaping a sui generis Taiwan that belongs to the world.
CSPTC Deputy Minister Hsu remarked that diplomatic work carries the profound trust of the nation and its people. She expressed her hope that the trainees would cherish their training, strengthen their capabilities, and take professional and steady actions to advocate for Taiwan, enabling the world to see Taiwan and helping to create a better future for its people. Furthermore, OCAC Minister Hsu pointed out that Taiwan plays a pivotal role in the international community, serving as the core of the first island chain, a key element of the global technology supply chain, and a beacon of democracy. She encouraged the trainees to build professionalism and cultivate partnerships, and stated that the OCAC will work closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in advancing Taiwan's future endeavors.
This year’s training program includes 50 trainees, comprising 44 diplomatic and consular personnel, 4 diplomatic and administrative personnel, and 2 overseas community affairs personnel recommended by the OCAC. They will receive professional training lasting 6 months, 4 months, and 3 months, respectively. The program focuses on deepening the participants' core diplomatic competencies while simultaneously enhancing their interdisciplinary knowledge and skills.
Related Pictures:
Deputy Foreign Minister and IDIA Chancellor François Chihchung Wu (front row, sixth from left), Administrative Deputy Minister of the Civil Service Protection and Training Commission Shiow-Cheun Hsu (fifth from left), and OCAC Minister Chia-Ching Hsu (fifth from right) pose for a group photo with the trainees.
Deputy Foreign Minister and IDIA Chancellor François Chihchung Wu (center) delivers a speech at the opening ceremony.