Taiwan’s new ambassador to the Holy See, Anthony CY Ho, has pledged stronger ties with the Vatican, emphasizing shared values of peace, justice, and religious freedom.
“I had the honor of presenting credentials on the morning of July 3,” said Ho in an interview with AsiaNews. “It was a warm and pleasant conversation.” He conveyed greetings from President Lai Ching-te and other senior Taiwanese officials.
“As a Catholic, I also had the joy of conveying the greetings and prayers of Taiwan’s Catholic community,” Ho added. He described Taiwan as a vibrant democracy committed to religious freedom and dialogue.
The Pope, he said, “will pray for Taiwan and appreciated all the greetings I conveyed.” Ho highlighted Taiwan’s global humanitarian aid—from earthquakes to COVID-19 relief and support for Ukraine.
Ho recalled Pope Leo’s previous encounter with Taiwan when he was bishop in Peru. “We donated medical supplies from Pingtung County to his diocese,” Ho noted, calling it a “symbol of the future.”
He introduced his diplomatic framework “HOPE”—Humanity, Opportunity, Partnership, Encounter—saying it aligns with the Pope’s emphasis on “encounter” and will guide Taiwan-Holy See collaboration in global outreach.
The Pope appreciated the idea, Ho said, and praised Taiwan’s “Prosperity for Diplomatic Allies Project,” which supports infrastructure in digital tech, healthcare, environment, and agriculture across diplomatic partner countries.
On the Vatican’s 2018 agreement with Beijing, Ho said, “We are interested in whether the government of the People’s Republic of China truly allows greater freedom to the Catholic people and community in China.”
He affirmed Taiwan’s commitment to peace amid regional tensions. “Taiwan is a peace-loving country and does not pose a threat,” Ho said. “We will undoubtedly continue to walk the path of peace.”
A fifth-generation Catholic, Ho said his faith shapes his diplomacy. “My faith influences how I see my future work with the Holy See, guided by the spirit of faith, hope, and charity.”
He gifted the Pope children’s drawings from a Tainan center founded by Fr. Brendan O’Connell. He also recalled Sister Elena Pia Frongia, who worked with Buddhists to serve Taiwan’s Indigenous poor.
“This collaboration between believers of different religions can serve as a model,” Ho said. “Taiwan can play a greater role in evangelization and the promotion of peace and harmony in the world.”
In closing, Ho said, “Taiwan is a force for good. It can be an excellent partner for the Holy See and others who share our values—democracy, freedom, justice, prosperity, and peace.”
