A motion by Depute Council Leader Councillor Day on recognising the huge step taken by the Taiwan government recently was discussed at council today.
Councillor Day had asked that “Council acknowledges the historic decision of the Taiwanese government in being the first country in Asia to legalise same sex marriage.
“Council joins the people of Taiwan in their celebrations and encourages other countries’ leaders to follow to ensure fairness and equality.
“Council requests the Lord Provost celebrates this historic event in an appropriate manner.”
Director-General of Taipei Representative Office in the UK Edinburgh Office Jason Chien-Chen, Lien explained : “On 17th May, 2019, on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan (Parliament) passed Asia’s first same-sex marriage bill.
“This is a great step towards equality, in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The bill has been signed into law by President Tsai Ing-Wen on 22 May, 2019.
“Taiwan and Scotland are indeed like-minded countries which share the same value of democracy, gender equality and human rights. I am pleased to see the motion in support of our new law is now passed by The City of Edinburgh Council. On behalf of the Taiwanese government and the Taiwanese community here in Edinburgh, I would like to express my gratitude toward the Council, and I hope our shared value will inspire more countries to take action in promoting LGBT equality and rights.”
Councillor Day said : “I was proud to propose this motion today welcoming and celebrating the historic decision made in Taipei to legislate for same sex marriage in Taiwan.
“This is a bold and exciting move and the first in Asia.
“Scotland’s capital city commends the decision of the Taiwanese Government and hopes that many neighbouring countries will follow their lead in properly recognising rights for the LGBT communities across the world.”
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