The issue of "Climate Change" takes unprecedented priority topic of discussion among professionals in the field of the "Environment". Record-breaking high and low temperature, flooding, drought, forest fire during recent years have caused great devastating changes in the life of many. With the "Butterfly Effect", one will only think of sharing something positive to protect this precious earth we have in the many years to come.

On this auspicious day of the National Council of Women (NCW) General Assembly, while extending my warm greetings to you all, I also like to congratulate NCW's outstanding accomplishments being achieved this year. Not only have you fulfilled your commitment of obligations at the home base, serving the sick, the new immigrants and the underprivileged with care and concern. Meanwhile, you have expanded your horizon and ventured into connecting internationally, thus acquiring exposure on the world stage.

At the United Nations 57th NGO session on the Commission of Status of Women (CSW), as well as at the ICW Executive Board and ICW Europe Regional meetings, you have diligently participated at these three important events. At home, you have taken part at the "Protection on Women's Rights" seminar organized by the Control Yuan; also at the NGO discussion session of the CEDAW alternative report organized by National Women's League, you have demonstrated your dedicated involvement in presentation of the report. Regardless of our race, creed and political belief, together we have shown concern in the wellbeing of all women especially in areas of health and education.

Getting connected is important and we welcome interaction internationally. Twice in Taipei we received NCW Singapore President and FAWA 1st vice-president, Sara Mei Woo. Then there was the visit in August U.S. Congress Woman and FAWA Honorary President Madeleine Bordallo from Guam; National Women's League hosted a dinner of reunion of old friends.

There is so much we can be proud of yet there is still so much we should do. Therefore we should not rest on our laurels but should always be ready to extend our help to where is needed, all for a better world for all.