Welcoming Addresses by Presidents of 2010 WSHR

Annette Lu, Former Vice President of Taiwan


The Association of World Citizens in Taiwan set April 1 as the World Citizenship Day. This is a significant revelation to the people of Taiwan . That is, Taiwan is part of the world and cannot isolate itself from the rest of the globe; we are members of the international community. It is very meaningful that issues of “human rights given by heaven, natural rights based on the people, the rule of law, protecting human rights, and safeguarding the earth” were chosen as the themes of this summit. These are in line with the development of human rights concept.

To conclude, I think we all wish to lead better lives. I wish that we shall all respect heaven, cherish the earth, and love others. Let us have an attitude of reverence and show respect to Mother Nature and the maker of the universe. Besides, we shall respect every piece of land. No matter how much wealth you have, you were merely asked by God to take good care of it. We shall not bring harm to others or the land or take by force what doesn’t belong to us. An old saying goes, “It takes tremendous blessings, which require 500 years of cultivation, for us to be on the same boat.” Therefore, as we get along with others, we shall cherish each person we meet, no matter the relationship is brief or long-lasting, established at work, through love, or as a partner in life. We shall respect heaven, cherish the earth, and love others.