TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan will dispatch a high-profile emissary to the Vatican as President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) appointed former Vice President Chen Chien-jen (陳建仁) to represent the island nation at Pope Francis' funeral scheduled for April 26, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA, 外交部) announced Wednesday (April 23).
Chen's selection carries significant diplomatic weight as he has met Pope Francis six times and received an academician badge directly from the pontiff, establishing a personal connection rare among international representatives. MOFA officials revealed in their Wednesday afternoon press release that the Vatican has scheduled the funeral ceremony for Saturday morning.
The Taiwanese government has expressed profound condolences over the Pope's death while pledging comprehensive support for Chen's diplomatic mission. In its official statement, MOFA underscored the historical significance of Taiwan-Vatican relations – one of Taiwan's few remaining formal diplomatic partnerships in Europe – and emphasized that Chen's personal connection with the late pontiff makes him uniquely qualified for this ceremonial role.
Pope Francis demonstrated consistent support for Taiwan throughout his papacy, notably offering prayers for victims of the devastating Hualien earthquake and appointing multiple Taiwanese bishops – gestures of recognition significant in Taiwan's diplomatic landscape. The pontiff welcomed Taiwan's interfaith delegations and presidential representatives at numerous Vatican functions over the years. MOFA officials reaffirmed their dedication to nurturing the Taiwan-Vatican relationship while advancing principles of religious freedom globally. ★
