Pro-localization groups have proposed to make Oct. 24 -- the date the UN Charter came into effect in 1945 -- "Taiwan UN Day" to call on Taiwanese to support the nation's bid to join the world body and remind the UN that it is denying Taiwan's entry in violation of its principle of universality.
In response, Minister of the Interior Lee Yi-yang (李逸洋) said yesterday that provided the groups sent a formal proposal to the ministry, it would review their case and invite relevant departments to a meeting to discuss the proposal.
If it were passed, the ministry would amend the Measures Regarding Memorial Days and Festivals (紀念日及節日實施辦法) to incorporate the holiday, Lee said.
Following the ministry's response, some groups and individuals behind the proposal -- including Taiwan New Century Foundation chairman Chen Lung-chu (陳隆志), former presidential senior advisors Peng Ming-min (彭明敏) and Koo Kuan-min (辜寬敏), as well as organizations including the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan, the Taiwan Association of University Professors and the various branches of the Taiwan Society -- said yesterday they would form an alliance promoting Taiwan's UN bid.
The alliance would then officially submit the holiday proposal to the ministry.
The Measures Regarding Memorial Days and Festivals was last amended on Aug. 29.
The country's memorial days include Anti-Invasion Day on March 14, chosen because on that day in 2005, China enacted its "Anti-Secession" Law threatening to use "non-peaceful" means against Taiwan if it declares independence.
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