By: Precious Mills
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Friday 15th October 2021) — The Taiwan Embassy marked the 110th National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the 38th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Taiwan and St. Kitts and Nevis with an eco-friendly beach clean-up at Friars Bay on Saturday 9th October 2021 — the second consecutive year this format has replaced the usual cocktail reception due to COVID-19. Taiwan Ambassador Michael Lin said: “Today, the 9th of October, is also an important date marking the 38th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Taiwan and St. Kitts and Nevis, just weeks after the Federation’s 38th anniversary of independence. The beach clean-up we just completed is a best example of our two countries’ common goals and continued joint efforts to build a better environment for future generations.”
Environment Minister Eric Evelyn, when asked about the waste collected, said: “I’m always concerned. This happens too much. I was a little happy though because I think we got less garbage than last year — whether or not that is because there is not a lot of activity on the beaches right now because of the pandemic. I hope this is a trend we’re going to see in the future. When you come to the beach to do your picnic, bring your bags and containers so you can take away whatever garbage you have. We are hoping that in the very near future we can have zero littering on the beaches in St. Kitts and Nevis — and not only the beaches but littering generally.” He endorsed tougher legislation to support enforcement, and applauded the Taiwan Embassy for the initiative. Ambassador Lin highlighted ongoing bilateral cooperation including Taiwan scholarship recipients, smart agriculture, public health, ICT, sustainable tourism, mandarin teacher and volunteer programmes, recycling, renewable energy, and forthcoming women’s economic empowerment initiatives.