By Nadia Tsao and Jonathan Chin / Staff reporter in Washington, with staff writerThe Global Taiwan Institute (GTI), a think tank that aims to protect Taiwanese democracy and national security by strengthening Taiwan-US relations, on Wednesday held an event at its headquarters in Washington to mark its inauguration. GTI is the first US-based think tank dedicated to Taiwanese interests and is said to be well-funded, reportedly spending US$24 million on the property for its headquarters in Dupont Circle, a neighborhood known for its heavy presence of embassies and prestigious think tanks. The event was attended by almost 100 Taiwanese-Americans, research institute experts, diplomats and politicians. GTI chairman Robert Lai (賴義雄) said the institute’s mission is to develop leaders and advocates for a strong Taiwan-US relationship for the next generation. GTI said it would hold its first academic conference on Thursday next week.

Source: Taipei Times September 15, 2016 15:56 UTC