Taipei, Republic of China (Taiwan), September 19, 2021 (Embassy of St. Kitts and Nevis): In the Republic of China (Taiwan), one of the few countries where a limited number of persons can gather in relative safety, H.E. Jasmine Huggins, Ambassador of Saint Kitts and Nevis to the Republic of China (Taiwan) hosted citizens and well-wishers to a buffet dinner and barbeque to celebrate the 38th Anniversary of Independence of Saint Christopher and Nevis. Observing the COVID-19 social distancing protocols established by Taiwan’s Central Epidemic Command Center, (CECC), guests were treated to rhythmic Caribbean music played on steel pan and keyboards by Ms. Jacinth Hunkins, Ms. Clilia Davis and Mr. Stephen Richards while enjoying a delicious Barbeque dinner. This year, Taiwan’s mid-autumn festival with its tradition of family barbeques, coincided with the Nation’s Independence Day. In attendance at the outdoor event were students and citizens from Saint Kitts and Nevis, Ambassadors, Taipei City government officials, businessmen and women as well as the former Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Saint Kitts and Nevis, H.E. Ambassador Tom Lee.
Referring to the global pandemic, Ambassador Huggins in her remarks said that while confronting the threat that could overwhelm small vulnerable states, it will be helpful to turn to the examples of those gone before “while at the same time, look deep within ourselves to harness the fortitude needed to adapt, diversify and recreate our nation in a manner that would benefit future generations. Nation Building and indeed our very survival create an imperative for us to look beyond our own agency and embrace the motto on our Coat of Arms, ‘Country above Self”.”
Many citizens felt nostalgic when hearing the indigenous music of Saint Kitts and Nevis being played on the steel pans and expressed their joy at being able to celebrate the important day together and were grateful for the opportunity to interact with each other, which had not been possible for a long time due to COVID-19.
