The dignitaries included Sao Tome and Principe President, Prime Minister Danny Philip, senior officials from Gambia and Palau, as well as lawmakers from South Korea, Japan, Switzerland and other countries.

Taipei Times reports that amid tight security around the Presidential Office, the Republic of China yesterday celebrated the anniversary with foreign dignitaries, floats, fireworks and a bit of politics.

People who wished to enter the cordoned off area, where the official ceremony was held, had to present special passes at checkpoints.