Taipei: The head of Taiwan's Ocean Affairs Council (OAC) recently welcomed United Kingdom Representative to Taiwan Ruth Bradley-Jones aboard a Coast Guard Administration (CGA) vessel for cultural activities ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival. The event was held on the CGA's 4,000-ton Yunlin patrol vessel on May 29 and saw participation from Natasha Harrington, director of political and communications at the British Office Taipei.

According to Focus Taiwan, OAC Minister Kuan Bi-ling emphasized the Dragon Boat Festival's reflection of unity values and highlighted the presence of British equipment on Taiwan's coast guard vessels. The British officials engaged in making zongzi, a traditional food for the festival, and crafted scented sachets.

Bradley-Jones commented on the shared maritime connections between the U.K. and Taiwan, noting the importance of the sea to both island nations. She drew a parallel between the texture of zongzi's glutinous rice and the strengthening relations between Taiwan and the U.K., citing common values such as maintaining peace and ocean protection.

She also participated in making scented sachets, which symbolize peace and good health, reflecting the mission of coast guard personnel to protect Taiwan's waters. The event concluded with an exchange of gifts, carrying symbolic meaning and holiday wishes.

The Dragon Boat Festival is set to be celebrated on June 19 this year. The OAC noted that this event followed a similar cultural visit during Lunar New Year with officials from the American Institute in Taiwan, aiming to enhance international partners' understanding of Taiwan's coast guard and maritime cooperation with like-minded countries.