At the Inspiring Taipei, Convention,The Intercountry Committee Takes Centre Stage in Strengthening Friendship Between Italy, Malta, San Marino and Taiwan

by Carlo Severa Italy–Malta–San Marino and Taiwan Intercountry Committee Chair

The Rotary International Convention in Taipei was an intense and inspiring experience for Italian Rotarians, combining the institutional significance of the event with the joy of meeting, sharing and building new connections. The Italian delegation, which included a strong representation from District 2080 as well as members from other districts across the country, took part in several days of plenary sessions, learning opportunities, meetings with Rotarians from around the world and moments of genuine fellowship.

One of the most moving highlights was the traditional Flag Ceremony. As the Italian Tricolorappeared on the large screen, Francesco Arezzo, President of Rotary International for 2025–2026, entered the hall proudly carrying the Italian flag. The notes of Il Canto degli Italiani, Italy’s national anthem, echoed throughout the venue before the worldwide Rotary family, making the occasion even more solemn and unforgettable for everyone in the Italian delegation.

Yet the most authentic memories of Taipei were created above all through the encounters that took place in the shared space of the House of Friendship. The exchange of experiences and projects, together with the opportunity to meet fellow Rotarians from every part of the world, once again demonstrated Rotary’s extraordinary ability to overcome geographical distances, language barriers and cultural differences. In the spirit of the “Year of Us”, which shaped the Rotary year in District 2080 under the leadership of Governor Adriana Muscas, the Taiwanese Rotarians truly became friends to all, confirming Rotary’s unique ability to make its members feel at home wherever they may be in the world.

Among the most significant events held during the Convention was the dinner on 15 June, jointly organised by the Italian and Taiwanese sections of the Italy–Malta–San Marino and Taiwan Intercountry Committees.

The evening provided Rotarians from the two countries with a valuable opportunity to deepen their mutual understanding, strengthen existing relationships and lay the foundations for new forms of cooperation. In a warm and engaging atmosphere, the gathering gave tangible expression to the mission of Rotary Intercountry Committees: building bridges between different communities and cultures, encouraging dialogue and mutual understanding, and promoting the development of joint initiatives.

Around the dinner table, the geographical distance between Italy and Taiwan gave way to a shared closeness of values, experiences and aspirations, together with a strong commitment to continuing their work side by side. The dinner was therefore far more than an enjoyable social occasion. It became a genuine celebration of international Rotary fellowship and of Rotary’s ability to transform personal encounters into lasting relationships and meaningful opportunities for service.

Special thanks are due to PDG Jack Hsieh, Chair of the Taiwanese Section of the Intercountry Committees, for his generous hospitality, warm welcome and dedicated commitment to coordinating the evening together with the Taiwanese Rotarians in attendance. His thoughtful attention to the Italian delegation and his steadfast support for the Committee’s activities made the gathering even more meaningful, strengthening a bond of friendship that is certain to endure well beyond the days of the Taipei Convention.