President Tsai Ing-wen has sent a congratulatory message to Pope Francis on the occasion of his 83rd birthday. Tsai was writing both on behalf of Taiwan’s people and its government. The Vatican is Taiwan’s sole diplomatic ally in Europe.
Taiwan’s embassy at the Vatican has also posted a congratulatory message on its Facebook page. The embassy sent wishes for good health and for the success of the Pope’s efforts to convey hope, peace, and unity to the world.
Vatican News reported that this December is a significant month for Pope Francis because it also marks the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood.