Taiwan’s MOFA Creates New ‘Ambassador-at-Large’ Roles for Senior Diplomats Returning from Overseas Missions
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) establishes new roles for seasoned diplomats to continue vital work on diplomatic projects after returning home.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has announced the creation of a new type of “ambassador-at-large” position, aimed at allowing senior diplomats returning from overseas assignments to continue contributing to the country’s international affairs. This move seeks to tap into the vast diplomatic experience and expertise of returning diplomats who have been posted abroad for years.
Purpose of the New Ambassador-at-Large Roles
The new ambassador-at-large roles are designed for grade 12 senior diplomats, specifically those holding positions such as consul general or counselor on home assignment rank. The new positions will allow these diplomats to engage in special diplomatic projects, using their experience and global connections.
This new initiative comes as part of MOFA’s effort to keep veteran diplomats involved in important international projects and roles after their overseas assignments. It aims to harness their diplomatic networks, language skills, and international experience to benefit Taiwan’s foreign policy and global engagement.
Distinction Between Ambassador-at-Large and Ambassador-in-Residence
While Taiwan’s current ambassador-at-large roles have been traditionally filled by non-civilian experts since 1998, the newly introduced ambassador-at-large positions are specifically intended for career diplomats. Unlike an ambassador-in-residence, who is typically assigned to a specific country or embassy, the ambassador-at-large position gives diplomats the freedom to operate across multiple regions or countries.
In addition to overseeing diplomatic initiatives, ambassadors-at-large may also be tasked with advising on specialized issues or managing diplomatic relationships with other governments, international organizations, or non-governmental organizations (NGOs). For example, Taiwan already has ambassadors-at-large for religion and cyber affairs.
Taiwan’s Expanding Diplomatic Reach
According to sources within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) envisions the new positions as key to advancing Taiwan’s diplomatic priorities. These roles will focus on crucial projects such as opening new overseas offices, engaging with international organizations, negotiating trade deals, and fostering exchanges with NGOs.
The initiative reflects Taiwan’s need to maximize the potential of its diplomats who return home after serving in overseas missions. Many of these diplomats have rich international experience and valuable connections, but after returning to Taiwan, they often find limited opportunities to continue their work due to the availability of posts.
Minister Lin has expressed that the establishment of these new roles will allow these diplomats to remain engaged and contribute to Taiwan’s foreign relations in meaningful ways.
What’s Next for Taiwan’s Diplomacy?
This new approach is expected to provide senior diplomats with opportunities to make a significant impact on Taiwan’s diplomatic agenda. By re-engaging with seasoned diplomats, Taiwan hopes to enhance its international presence and strengthen its ties with the global community.
Key Facts:
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| New Role | Ambassador-at-large for senior diplomats returning from overseas |
| Eligible Diplomats | Grade 12 senior diplomats, such as consul generals and counselors |
| Purpose | Manage special diplomatic projects, advise on foreign relations, and promote Taiwan’s global standing |
| Differences | Unlike ambassadors-in-residence, ambassadors-at-large work across multiple regions |
| Key Focus Areas | Opening new overseas offices, Taiwan’s participation in international organizations, trade deals, and NGO exchanges |
FAQs
- What is the new ambassador-at-large position?
- It is a newly created diplomatic role for senior diplomats returning to Taiwan after long-term overseas assignments, allowing them to work on special international projects.
- Who is eligible for the new ambassador-at-large positions?
- Senior diplomats holding positions like consul general or counselor, typically at grade 12 rank, are eligible for these new roles.
- How is this position different from an ambassador-in-residence?
- While an ambassador-in-residence is assigned to a specific country, an ambassador-at-large works across multiple countries or regions and handles specific diplomatic projects.
- What are some of the duties of an ambassador-at-large?
- Ambassadors-at-large may focus on managing overseas offices, engaging in international trade talks, fostering NGO exchanges, and advising on foreign relations.
- Why was this new role created?
- The role was created to provide senior diplomats with opportunities to continue using their international experience and connections after returning to Taiwan, where many posts are already filled.
