TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan hosted the 14th Asia for Animals Conference for the first time Tuesday (Aug. 26) at the Taipei Marriott Hotel, drawing President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) to the landmark event. The president expressed strong support for conservation efforts, emphasizing that the conference represents the region's largest international meeting focused on animal protection. Lai reiterated Taiwan's dedication to peace and goodwill, aiming to achieve coexistence with all species through enhanced protection measures.
President Lai also emphasized that Taiwan has long championed comprehensive animal protection policies, including strengthening legislation, promoting wildlife habitat restoration, and combating illegal capture and trade activities. He highlighted the country's collaboration with animal welfare organizations to humanely manage stray animal populations across the island. Taiwan established the Department of Animal Welfare (動物保護司) in 2023, which aims to align with the One Health concept connecting ecological balance and societal health.
The Asia for Animals Conference, founded in 2001, rotates biennially among different host countries across the region. This year, the Environment and Animal Society of Taiwan (台灣動物社會研究會), Taiwan SPCA (台灣防止虐待動物協會), Taiwan Human-Animal Studies Institute (台灣動物與人學會), and the Ministry of Agriculture, Taiwan's agricultural authority, organized the prestigious event. The collaboration represents a significant milestone for Taiwan's animal welfare movement on the international stage.
The 3-day conference runs through Thursday, exploring the comprehensive theme "Reflections and Advances in Animal Protection." Participants will discuss diverse topics including stray animal management, welfare of farmed animals, wildlife conservation, aquatic animal welfare, and policy advocacy initiatives. Organizers reported that the conference has attracted nearly 600 experts, scholars, and practitioners from over 30 countries to Taiwan's capital. ◼