Tsai calls for stronger Taiwan-Silicon Valley ties

Former president Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) called for stronger two-way ties between Taiwan and Silicon Valley at a meeting with young tech entrepreneurs at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in San Francisco on Friday.

After her visit to Stanford University, Tsai met with members of Silicon Valley’s tech start-up and venture capital communities for a second consecutive day, listening to their views on the industry.

In her opening speech, Tsai said her visit to the San Francisco Bay Area was her first trip to the US since leaving office.

Former president Tsai Ing-wen on Friday delivers remarks at a gathering with Silicon Valley tech start-ups and venture capitalists in San Francisco.

Photo: CNA

In addition to accepting Stanford University’s invitation, Tsai she wanted to meet Taiwanese working, studying or pursuing entrepreneurial ventures in the area, particularly those in the technology sector.

Taiwan has become increasingly connected to the world through its work in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, information and communications technology, biomedicine and other fields, she said.

As those ties deepen, Taiwan should consider what more it can offer the world beyond its technology and products, she added.

Tsai urged young Taiwanese in the tech sector to share Taiwan’s experience and stories with the world while bringing back valuable insights from Silicon Valley in technology, talent, investment and new ways of working.

A country’s strength lies not only in its government and businesses, but also in people, especially young people willing to take risks, she said, adding that Taiwanese youth pursuing opportunities in Silicon Valley are an important source of strength for Taiwan.

Tsai arrived in the US on Monday and is scheduled to return to Taiwan today.