German Delegation Visits HL to Strengthen TW-DE Ties; HL Welcomes Rep. from Vhs
(中央社訊息服務20250509 15:07:43)In an effort to deepen international cooperation and friendship, representatives from Volkshochschule StarnbergAmmersee (vhs) and councilors from Landkreis Starnberg, Hualien’s sister district in Germany, visited the Hualien County Government on May 8. Hualien County Mayor Hsu Chen-Wei personally welcomed the delegation and engaged in discussions on a broad range of topics, including education, culture, and social development.
Mayor Hsu recalled the sister city agreement signed in 2018 by then-Mayor Fu Kun-Chi and German representatives, which laid the foundation for a lasting partnership. She expressed her appreciation for the hospitality extended by the German side over the years, particularly during Hualien’s participation in the 2023 Oktoberfest and other municipal exchange activities. She also thanked the people of Starnberg for their messages of support following the April 3, 2024 earthquake in Hualien. Mayor Hsu noted that the county continues to support overseas learning opportunities for local students in Germany, helping them gain broader international perspectives. She also highlighted Hualien’s efforts in promoting sustainability, including the establishment of the Recycling Resource Center and the Biomass Energy Center. She expressed hope that this visit would lead to deeper cooperation across multiple fields.
The delegation was led by Mr. Tim Weidner, Chair of Volkshochschule StarnbergAmmersee (vhs) and a district councilor. He noted that this was their first visit to Hualien since the agreement was signed, as earlier exchanges had been delayed by the pandemic and other challenges. He conveyed his fondness for Hualien and appreciation for the enduring friendship between the two regions. During the meeting, Mr. Weidner introduced the concept of Germany’s adult education centers, which are similar to Taiwan’s community colleges. These centers offer language courses, vocational training, and integration programs that help immigrants and refugees adapt to society, reflecting Germany’s commitment to social inclusion and lifelong learning.
The delegation included several councilors and senior members of the vhs. Mr. Weidner had previously met with Mayor Hsu during her official visit to Germany in September 2023, where a meaningful connection was established. His return visit to Hualien reaffirmed the mutual respect and commitment shared between both sides.
The visitors praised Hualien’s warm hospitality and vibrant local culture. They also shared insights into StarnbergAmmersee’s community-based learning practices, which offered new inspiration for Hualien’s educational initiatives. Both sides expressed enthusiasm for expanding future collaborations and promoting more exchanges at both governmental and civic levels.
The Hualien County Government reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening international partnerships with sister cities and enhancing the county’s global presence through sustained exchanges in education, culture, tourism, and other key areas.