TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang (田中光) met papal envoy Cardinal John Tong Hon (湯漢) of Hong Kong at an event in Kaohsiung on Saturday (Oct. 5).

More than 10,000 people attended the 5th Eucharistic Congress in Taiwan, including former Vice President Chen Chien-jen (陳建仁) and Vatican representative in Taiwan Stefano Mazzotti, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). Tong told Tien he was impressed by how rapidly Taiwan's society returned to normal after Typhoon Krathon, which hit Kaohsiung days before.

The deputy minister emphasized Taiwan’s respect for religious freedom and diversity. Tien said despite challenges, the government and people of Taiwan contributed to the world in humanitarian aid and healthcare.

He also said Taiwan and the Vatican would intensify their cooperation on humanitarian work with the current positive relationship as a starting point.