The Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research (CIER) held a memorial service for the late Senior Deputy Executive Director Huai-Shing Yen on July 24, 2026, and published the book “Essays in Memory of Dr. Huai-Shing Yen: A Noble Vision Unfulfilled.” The memorial service selectively invited former supervisors, close relatives, friends, and CIER colleagues to gather in remembrance. Over 130 people attended the event. Distinguished guests included Li-Chiun Cheng, Vice Premier of the Executive Yuan. Other attendees were Minister Chia-Lung Lin of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Minister Ming-Hsin Kung of the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Deputy Minister Cynthia Kiang and former Deputy Minister Chern-Chyi Chen also attended. Representatives from the International Trade Administration included Director General William Liu alongside Deputy Director Generals Susan Hu and Pei-Li Chen. Additional notable figures included Professor Tain-Jy Chen, former Minister of the National Development Council and former President of the CIER. Chairman Chung-Shu Wu of the Taiwan Institute of Economic Research and former CIER Chairman Chi-Yuan Liang also paid their respects. Professor Kuang-Hua Yang from the National Chengchi University Department of International Business was also present.
The service also featured the publication of “Essays in Memory of Dr. Huai-Shing Yen: A Noble Vision Unfulfilled.” The hardcover edition compiles 600 pages of her representative published works. The complete e-book totals 2,000 pages. This essay collection reflects Dr. Huai-Shing Yen’s passion and sense of mission as a public intellectual. It stands as a vital asset she leaves behind for Taiwan. (For publication details, please refer to: Essays in Memory of Dr. Huai-Shing Yen: A Noble Vision Unfulfilled–CIER.) The memorial service was solemn yet warm. Attendees shared enduring memories of Dr. Yen. These genuine and emotional tributes brought both laughter and tears, culminating in a highly moving and successful event.
Tien-Wang Tsaur, Chairman of the CIER, delivered remarks on behalf of the CIER. He stated that Dr. Huai-Shing Yen dedicated her life to international economic law and trade negotiations. She relied on profound academic knowledge, rigorous scholarship, and a high sense of mission. Dr. Huai-Shing Yen subsequently made outstanding contributions to Taiwan’s economic development and international participation. She passed away before fulfilling her ultimate ambitions. However, Dr. Huai-Shing Yen leaves behind a rich legacy of academic achievements and a model of professionalism. Her spirit of upholding ideals and serving the country will continuously inspire future generations, and her exemplary character and lifelong dedication will endure.
Former President Tain-Jy Chen contributed a preface titled “A Broken Orchid, but an Enduring Spirit.” He noted that Huai-Shing resolved to dedicate her talents to this hardship-stricken nation. She hoped to expand the country’s international economic space and increase its degree of freedom. The essay collection preserves the essence of Huai-Shing’s life. It captures the refined language and analytical logic forged through long-term education, discipline, and reflection. This work resonates like a harmonious symphony and will undoubtedly stand the test of time. The hero can no longer be retrieved. May Huai-Shing’s spirit live on forever.
President Hsien-Ming Lien noted in his closing remarks that Huai-Shing ultimately resigned due to illness. However, her greatest lingering concern was Taiwan’s failure to establish a comprehensive training system for trade negotiation talent. Trade negotiation professionals require long-term cultivation and cannot be rushed. Lien hopes the CIER and all sectors of society can take up this unresolved regret and expectation left by Huai-Shing and transform it into concrete action. This book serves as the best starting point.
Dr. Yen’s parents briefly attended the memorial service to express their gratitude to all attendees. They also wished to commemorate the CIER as the place where Dr. Yen enjoyed her work and life over the past 20 years. Consequently, they donated NT$1 million to the CIER during the service. The CIER’s Chairman Tien-Wang Tsaur and President Hsien-Ming Lien accepted the donation on the institution’s behalf. Chairman Tsaur expressed gratitude on behalf of the CIER. He stated that the institution will use these funds to encourage young scholars to pursue research on economic and trade issues.
Essays in Memory of Dr. Huai-Shing Yen
Guests present flowers to pay their respects
Dr. Huai-Shing Yen’s parents donate NT$1 million to the CIER
CIER’s Chairman Tien-Wang Tsaur delivers remarks of gratitude
Minister Chia-Lung Lin of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shares his thoughts in remembrance
CIER’s President Hsien-Ming Lien shares his memories
