Respected and distinguished poet, guest, officer and senior all from around the world, Good day!
In the winter of 2003, I was hired by the World Congress of poets to be the consultant. Ever since then, I attended the annual congress every year with Dr. Chi-Long, Wang. Of the eleven years I have spent here, I have always had fond memories of the forefathers of the WCP: they are respectively Mr. Srinivos from India, Mr. Yuzoi from Philippines, Mr. Zhong Dinwen from China and Poet Laureate, Mr. Lou Lutour from the United States.
Their ideas of world brotherhood and love and peace, are all so inspirational. It is in that spirit, we shall move forward and unite as one, so that the World Congress of Poets will pass on the torch. Thank you all.
The congress of this year could not have happened without the help from Director of Taiwan Literature Museum, Mr. Chen Yi-Yuan and Mr. Baek Han-Yi from Korea.
Tainan is Taiwan’s ancient city with rich culture and history. Mayor Lai Ching-Te has not only preserved historical sites around the city but also cared for cultural exchanges. The Cultural Affairs Bureau of Tainan City has hosted numerous international events and invited cultural and art groups from over thirty countries. Such events include Taiwan International Art Festival, the International Dragon Boat Championship and namely, International Poetry Festival. I firmly believe that the World Congress of Poets 2016 will sure be held successfully with the blessings of the 1.88 million Tainan citizens.
At least, I would like to thank all the poets and poetry enthusiasts for your attendance. I know many of you went through the long way to travel down here whether by sea by air or by train to be with us today. For that I am eternally grateful. On behalf of the 23 million Taiwanese people, I would like to welcome all of you and I sincerely hope I will see you again next year. I hope the best fot your well being and a pleasant trip back home. Thank you all.
Sincerely Yours
Chi-Lan Tsai
Chairman of the World Congress of Poets 2016
October 23, 2016