President Tsai Ing-wen sent a congratulatory message to Pope Francis on Friday in honor of the seventh anniversary of his election as pope.
Tsai thanked the Vatican for working with Taiwan to promote peace, freedom, and justice around the world. The Vatican is the only state in Europe that maintains diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
Tsai said she is glad that both sides can work together to create a fair and sustainable world and care for all, especially the disadvantaged. She also said Taiwanese people believe that the Vatican will continue to create a better world and bring hope to people. She said she believes that the pope can teach people to rid the world of prejudice and learn empathy and brotherhood.