Taiwanese director general speaks at AU

The director general of the Taiwanese Taipei Economic and Cultural Office of Atlanta is the most recent in a list of dignitaries to visit the Auburn University campus this semester.

Speaking to a small group of students and faculty, Larry Tseng briefly discussed Taiwan’s 400-year history from a Dutch colony to a democracy in the shadow of mainland China. Tseng also touted the country’s economic and social achievements, noting its technology-based economy and freedoms of press and government.

Tseng’s profile characterized the small nation of islands through its relationships with its closest ally, the U.S., and neighboring China.

“Politically, China and Taiwan are in a state of conflict,” he said.

But Taiwan and the mainland now have regular trade and arrangements for citizens to cross the strait to visit relatives.

Tseng also said he looks forward to a growing relationship with AU.

During the next three weeks, consuls general from Turkey, Mexico and Australia will visit campus, according to Dr. Bob McGinnis, senior counsel to the president and former AU vice president for development. Turkey will visit Nov. 4, Mexico on Nov. 11 and Australia on Nov. 18.

McGinnis said he has talked to five other embassies about representatives coming to campus next semester.

The visits are a chance for students, particularly those without international experiences, to interact with foreign dignitaries, he said.

“We hope that kind of exchange and interaction continues,” McGinnis said.