Nova Atlium - 10/02/2024
Prime Minister Justin Tsai of Hershwell has given an exclusive interview to CTAVA regarding the year of the dragon.
CTAVA: What were the Hershwell's Government thoughts on the planning of the Cultural Year of the Dragon, specially on how it developed from an Obscurian-Hershwellian project to a wider micronational one?
J.T.:It's always been a paramount part of Hershwell's national identity that we protect and promote the unique cultures of the Taiwanese micronational community. I guess this extends to the shared cultures we enjoy on this island, including the celebration of the Lunar New Year. We at the Principality particularly enjoy the idea of this event as diplomacy through cultural exchanges is definitely one of our strengths as an East Asian micronation.
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The interactions between Hershwell and Obscurian especially echo such a statement. Mr Zar Anatov and I first got to know each other through the introduction of His Excellency Pio Lowe of the New Rubix Republic. Because we both have immense love for philately and stamp design, our nations were able to find cultural common grounds that enrich the diplomatic relation. And now, through the Cultural Year of the Dragon, we continue to build upon this dynamic.
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I'm also thrilled that the Empire of Atlia is again in close cooperation with Hershwell after so many years. H.R.H. Luis of Atlia and I have known each other for many years. Through this event, I hope the two nations' friendship will continue to prosper!
CTAVA: Will Hershwell release a list on the activities to be done throughout the year, if so, could you share some of the key ones per month, please? If not, what are Hershwell's plans for its citizens in this joint cultural project?
J.T:
February: Visiting the National Taiwan Museum for the Dragon/Dinosaur events
March: No information given
April: Physical release and mailing of the Dragon Year Stamp
May: Issuing of the Stamp commemorating Dragons on Temple Architecture
June: Viewing of the Dragon Boat Race in Taiwan
CTAVA: Any recommendations for people who have never heard of the festivity or anything related to it who may be interested in joining us? Could you share some webpages for good reference please?
J.T.: Dragons are omnipresent in a wide array of cultures and civilisations. I hope this cultural event can expose participants and other external observers to the diverse culture and history of the dragon beyond their own understanding. For example, unlike in the West typically, the dragon is a much revered symbol of prosperity and well-being in East Asia. I myself am also fascinated by the many stories and folklore depicting Dragons in the West.
CTAVA: ¿Pensamientos finales sobre todo el proyecto a punto de comenzar y/o un mensaje para nuestros lectores?
J.T.: If you wish to learn more about Dragons in East Asia, don't limit yourself to the dragon culture in China. Dragon is also commonly found in the cultures of Taiwan, Korea, Vietnam, Tibet, Japan, and beyond! I suggest you to visit the following websites (https://mythosaurus.com/eastern-dragons, https://www.godsoftaiwan.com/Dragon-Dance.html) to learn more about the dragon culture in East Asia.
CTAVA thanks Mr. Justin Tsai for his time and responses to our readers.