President Lai Ching-te gave a National Day speech earlier today, titled "A New Taiwan Rises in a Time of Change.”

President Lai stated that it is a historic year for Taiwan’s democratization, but also a year in which nations around the world are suffering drastic changes and challenges. However, Taiwan has ushered in a democratic future full of hope.

President Lai stated that Taiwan is a beacon of democracy in Asia, as, in the midst of adversity, we remain undaunted and, in the midst of challenges, we grow ever stronger. Taiwan’s economic growth rate was 5.1 percent, leading the Four Asian Tigers and surpassing China. These are achievements made by the people of Taiwan together, he said.

He also outlined three major strategies to ensure Taiwan's competitive advantage

Expand investment in Taiwan and optimize it to achieve our goal of a balanced Taiwan environment.

Deepen international economic and trade cooperation, and expand our global presence.

Building a chain of “guardian mountains” to shore up Taiwan’s industrial capabilities. Invest more vigorously; Attract international capital to Taiwan, giving our nation durable competitiveness and advancing the well-being of our people.

President Lai also said he look forward to the day when China can take responsibility as a major power, cease its distortion of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and historical World War II documents, and renounce the use of force or coercion to change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait so that we can jointly maintain the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific. He added that democratic Taiwan is a crucial link for the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific, adding that peace is won through strength. He also stated that Taiwan is increasing defense spending, creating the T-Dome, and advancing the integration of high-tech and AI technologies to build a smart defense combat system. In addition, he said, Taiwan will continue to invest in innovative defense technologies, becoming a trusted security partner for our friends and allies, jointly avoiding red supply chains and building a robust line of defense to safeguard the values of freedom and democracy

President Lai also thanked the numerous Taiwanese standing on the frontline, selflessly dedicating themselves to the nation they love, including the “superheroes with shovels” who lent assistance to those affected by the flooding in Hualien.

He ended by stating that he will continue to lead the country, hearts united, without fear of hardship or challenge, bravely, toward an even better tomorrow.

Full Speech:

https://reurl.cc/QaMKo5

114th National Day Celebration:

https://reurl.cc/x3RV4L

資料來源：外交部