Radio Taiwan International (Rti) celebrated 50 years of Spanish-language broadcasts on Saturday, March 14, in a ceremony attended by Spanish speakers from across Taiwan and government officials. Speaking at the event, Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi (陳明祺) said that Taiwan's Spanish broadcasts embody the Taiwanese spirit that “everyone is a diplomat.”

In addition to Deputy Minister Chen, the event was attended by Rti Chairperson Cheryl Lai (賴秀如), Paraguayan Ambassador Darío Filártiga Ruiz Díaz, and Foreign Minister Director General Ke Liang-ruey (柯良叡), among others.

Speaking at the event, Lai pointed out how Rti's Spanish-language broadcasts have been a constant for half a decade, earning international popularity and recognition. "For 50 years, the Spanish broadcasts of Radio Taiwan International have greeted listeners every day. As a result, our Spanish programs were voted 'most popular global news program' and most popular radio hosts by the shortwave group 'Club Without Borders'."

Deputy Minister Chen focused on the reach of Rti's Spanish programs, which have reached as many as 500 million global Spanish speakers over their time. "Not only in Spanish, but since the inception of Rti, we have now broadcast programs in at least 20 languages, simultaneously transmitting Taiwan's voice to the world, and becoming an omnipresent medium for the world to hear, see, and connect with Taiwan. As Rti approaches its 98th anniversary with listeners spanning 140 countries worldwide, it remains a vital link in our nation's international communication and public diplomacy efforts. All Rti hosts truly embody the spirit of 'everyone [being] a representative'."

Díaz commented on Taiwan and Paraguay's 68 years of diplomatic relationship, built on friendship, cooperation, and a commitment to democracy. He credited Rti's Spanish service with helping Latin American listeners to better understand Taiwan, and as a valuable partner for Paraguayan National Radio. These efforts, Díaz said, demonstrate the power of international communication to enhance the friendship and understanding between nations.