 The creativity of St. Lucian shone brightly on a Sunday 10th October as a nation shared in the celebration of the Republic of China Taiwan's National Day. Hermione Mark has the details. The Embassy of the Republic of China Taiwan in collaboration with the Cultural Development Foundation held Taiwan National Day celebrations in St. Lucia. Taiwan on October 10 celebrated the 110th anniversary of its founding. The virtual event held on Sunday paid tribute to Taiwan and its impact on the development of St. Lucia. The vibrant production saw the participation of artisans in St. Lucia and Taiwan and featured addresses from diplomats of both countries. Minister for External Affairs, International Treats, Civil Aviation and Diaspora Affairs Honourable Alva Baptiste congratulated the government and people of Taiwan and Prime Minister of St. Lucia Honourable Philip J.P.F. country for its continued support. I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of Taiwan. Since the resumption of diplomatic ties in 2007, St. Lucia and Taiwan have maintained close and mutually beneficial relations. St. Lucia appreciates and cherishes the partnership with Taiwan that has to a tremendous extent enhance the national development agenda of St. Lucia and people's livelihood. St. Lucia stands with the Republic of China, Taiwan on this national day and every other day. St. Lucia believes that Taiwan's participation in international affairs should no longer be denied. We continue to see Taiwan's generosity in nearly every spare of human, social and economic development. Taiwan's students continue to benefit from Taiwan's scholarship programs as our students earn a world-class education at Taiwanese universities. We look forward to the teaching of Mandarin hair in St. Lucia. Ambassador of Taiwan to St. Lucia, His Excellency Peter Chen, speaking on Taiwan's work in 2021, said the embassy had a productive year. This past year has been fruitful and productive for the embassy. It's been a wonderful adventure for myself as well. I have faith in almost every constituency in St. Lucia. From the coastline of Miku to the top of Pitong, we strive to bring the benefit of our country's cooperation to all people here. I'm honored to build people-to-people connections for St. Lucia. I'm glad that we can share and witness beneficial achievements together. When Taiwan and St. Lucia work together, we can accomplish incredible and impactful goals. The Tourism, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture and Information Honorable Dr. Eunice Thile commended Taiwan on its contribution to St. Lucia's community development through the Taiwanese constituency development program. Just about every community in St. Lucia can boast of some project that was provided by the government and people of Taiwan. As Minister of Tourism, only recently, I participated in a link-up with the people of Taiwan showcasing St. Lucia's talent, showcasing the sights and sounds of St. Lucia. We know we have friends in Taiwan, so as you celebrate your national day, we join you. We celebrate with you, and we wish you the very best in the future. Happy National Day. The winners of the Best of the Best Taiwan Suyun Tusha Lantern Competition were also announced during Sunday's celebrations. First place was awarded to Kecia Peter, winning $1,500. A lantern will be displayed at the 2022 Taipei Lantern Festival in Taiwan. Nisa Felix won second place and the prize for the most innovative lantern, winning $1,000 and $500, respectively. Giovanni St. Oma captured the third place prize of $700. From the Government Information Service, Hermione Marc reporting.