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2018-06-25
President Tsai interviewed by AFP

During an interview with Agence France-Presse (AFP) on the morning of June 25, President Tsai Ing-wen responded to questions about Taiwan-US relations, cross-strait relations, Taiwan's international status and identity, and the summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. 

A transcript of the interview questions with a translation of the president's responses follows:

Q: You said you've had some challenges since taking office. What is your next challenge?
President Tsai: During the 2016 elections, the voters of Taiwan had very high hopes and expectations for the future. In fact, 2016 was a challenging year for Taiwan and this led them to cast their votes with conviction. They had high expectations for the president and government elected in 2016 and wanted to see the changes they had hoped for as soon as possible. So for a president elected in 2016, time is a big challenge. We must race against time in order to carry out the necessary reforms – some of them fundamental reforms. For the president of Taiwan, the biggest challenge at this stage is time.

Furthermore, our society faces many trials, such as the pressure coming from China. How the president can uphold national dignity and sovereignty at the same time we maintain cross-strait peace remains another one of our biggest challenges.

For a long-time our economic development has been reliant on industrial manufacturing and OEM production. We must move towards the next phase of innovation, cutting-edge technology, and high-value industries to support our next phase of economic development. This sort of economic transition is very important for Taiwan. We are racing against time and all the other major economies of the world. 

Separately, we are faced with the fact that Taiwan is a place with many natural disasters, particularly typhoons and earthquakes. So for us, nuclear energy is a choice with relatively more risk. At the same time, faced with the threat of climate change, the continued use of fossil fuels is also a challenge. Therefore, we must develop a new option, which is renewable energy. In the past, we lacked a good foundation for this so the rapid development of renewables presented difficulties for the government.
 
Another issue is the generational gap we are facing in Taiwan society. The younger generation and the middle-aged to older generation hold many values that are in conflict with each other. This is reflected in the income distribution and labor problems. The reason we spent such time and effort on pension reform is to maintain a balance between different generations.

Q: Of the reforms you mentioned, you didn't mention same-sex marriage. Is it something that you want to achieve in your first term or is it something that you're not pushing for that hard? 
President Tsai: Same-sex marriage is also a reflection of the generational gap. In Taiwan, those above 40 tend to have different views to those under 40. However, the Grand Justices have already made a Constitutional interpretation, stating that marriage equality is Constitutionally-protected. All executive, legislative, and other branches of government must respect this ruling. So from a certain perspective, we have already completed one phase of this. Following this is the legislative process. We will bridge the differences society holds on this issue in order to propose a comprehensive bill.

Q: You use the words "pressure" and "peace." We'll get back to cross-strait relations later. What does Taiwan represent to you? How would you describe Taiwan to someone who knows very little about it?
President Tsai: If I were to describe Taiwan using one word I would say resilience. Taiwan is a place of limited resources. Over the centuries, it has gone through rule by different people. Therefore, one of the biggest challenges for every generation of Taiwanese has been how to survive. But over the centuries, the people have overcome these challenges to develop a very strong democracy and a solid economy. This shows that Taiwan is a very resilient place. 

Let me put it this way. For example, following the Second World War, Taiwan went through a long period of authoritarian rule. However, this did not lead us to go through a period of bloodshed during our democratic transition. Instead, step-by-step, Taiwan developed into one of Asia's most vibrant and diverse democracies. Today, Taiwan is a model for the region and even the world. Without a period of bloodshed, Taiwan was able to build a very good democracy and attach great importance to freedom and the protection of human rights.

At the same time, Taiwan is a place more prone to natural disasters. We also lack natural resources. But despite this, we were able to nurture a high-quality work force, which has helped set a strong foundation for our economy. Today, we are moving towards the next generation of innovation-driven economic growth. So Taiwan's economic development is also a reflection of the resilience of the Taiwanese people.

The third part is Taiwan has a very large neighbor: China. Despite China's ongoing pressure, we have still managed to uphold our values of democracy and freedom. We are still willing to contribute proactively to international society – not just through government, but also through volunteerism. Taiwan's volunteers provide a lot of assistance throughout the world, and are widely-recognized for their ability to contribute wherever there are difficulties or natural disasters. 

Q: Do you love Taiwan's democracy and freedom the most?
President Tsai: If I were to label Taiwan, I would label Taiwan as an island of resilience.

Q: Moving to political topics, I noticed that you often mention pressure from China. Would you say that the status quo in cross-strait relations has changed and that now there is more pressure from China than before?
President Tsai: We have been consistently withstanding pressure from China over the past two years. However, more recently, we have seen them take more aggressive actions that have impacted the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. It is not just the people of Taiwan that feel this way. I trust that the international community has seen China take many actions against Taiwan during this time, including military exercises, forcing airlines to change their designation of Taiwan, and more. This has given the international community a clear impression of how China is changing the status quo. They are threatening the balance that has existed for a long time between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Q: How do you explain China's aggression over the past two years?
President Tsai: For the past two years, and even longer, China has grown increasingly aggressive. Of course, they want to stifle Taiwan in order to widen the distance between itself and Taiwan's democracy and freedom. But they also have regional ambitions. China wants to demonstrate its hegemony in the region. They want to show that they are able to dominate the security, economic, and other forces in the region. China's intentions should be very clear to the international community.

Q: You have solemnly stated that China's attempts to undermine Taiwan's sovereignty have challenged the island's bottom line. Can you elaborate on what the bottom line is? 
President Tsai: I believe that the people of Taiwan share the same view of our bottom line. First is our democracy and freedom. Our free and democratic way of life cannot be infringed on. Second, Taiwan's sovereignty cannot be suppressed and has to be respected. Third, the people of Taiwan have the right to decide their own futures – and that right cannot be undermined.

Q: What countermeasures have you taken in response to that pressure? 
President Tsai: We must continue to strengthen our democracy, economy, and national capacity to protect our country and the values we cherish. 

But in addition to this, this is not just Taiwan's challenge; it is a challenge for the region and the world as a whole. Because today it's Taiwan, but tomorrow it may be any other country that will have to face the expansion of China's influence. Their democracy, freedom, and freedom to do business will one day be affected by China. We need to work together to reaffirm our values of democracy and freedom in order to constrain China and also minimize the expansion of their hegemonic influence.

Q: Aren't you disappointed by the attitude of the international community in that respect?
President Tsai: I think that the international community is starting to see China's intentions and ambitions very clearly. For the past few years, China's oppression against Taiwan has never stopped. However, we are also seeing more and more countries stand up, support, and speak out for Taiwan. For example, Taiwan wasn't able to attend this year's World Health Assembly because of obstruction from China. But, 24 countries spoke up on our behalf, including some non-diplomatic allies. We held over 60 bilateral meetings in Geneva and received widespread support. I think this is a very clear demonstration of the growing support for Taiwan at the WHA.

Q: On the topic of pressure from China, you said that one of your challenges is to develop Taiwan's economy. As we all know, Taiwan's economy depends on your relations with China. As such, how will you alleviate the pressure on the cross-strait relations and develop the economy at the same time? 
President Tsai: First, China and Taiwan should have a common awareness that the development of businesses on either side of the Taiwan Strait is a positive thing. They shouldn't be subject to political interference. So, I would like to call on China to allow the economy to develop freely and for it to be free from political interference. 

Second, Taiwan has to make its presence globally, not just in China. We have to develop other important markets and strengthen our strategic presence, particularly in Southeast Asian countries under our New Southbound Policy. We need to enhance our efforts in Southeast Asia, India, and other countries in the region that are full of market potential. At the same time, we will step up our cooperation in medicine, healthcare, agriculture, economic development, and talent exchanges, particularly in nurturing talent.

There are a lot of experiences Taiwan can share, which are very much needed by countries in Southeast Asia. Our economic development experience is highly complementary with theirs. So, under the New Southbound Policy, we will continue to strengthen those relations.

Furthermore, we have found that our trade and investment relations with European countries are also growing stronger. European countries are the number one investor in Taiwan today. Of course, we also have our traditional economic partners, including Japan and the US. Those relations continue to be very strong.

As a result, if we are better deployed around the world, we will be able to reduce China's economic influence both against us and the international community.

Q: With pressure from China growing, are you ready to meet with Chairman Xi Jinping or under what conditions would you meet with him? 
President Tsai: I have mentioned on many occasions that as long as it is based on reciprocity, respect, and without political preconditions, as Taiwan's leader and president I will be willing – and have a responsibility – to meet with the leader of the other side. I would be willing to have an in-depth conversation of the challenges we share, as well as to share a better understanding of Taiwan's economy, society, and development with Chairman Xi. I trust that this will aid him in his policies and decision-making, in order to avoid misinterpretations or misunderstandings.

Q: Do you think that there is a chance that a meeting will happen in the near future? 
President Tsai: I think this would depend on efforts of both parties, but we will continue to let the other side know that dialogue and communication is the most important way to resolve our issues. I hope that China can see the sincerity behind our willingness to talk. I also hope that China, as a responsible partner of the region, can be aware of their own responsibility and sit down and engage in conversation with Taiwan.

Q: Is this something you want to achieve this term? Is it one of your challenges? 
President Tsai: Of course, I hope that during my term as president, there is a chance for both sides to sit down and talk. I believe that the meeting between US President Trump and DPRK Leader Kim Jong-un has provided a lot to think about. Their two countries are very far apart in terms of cultural values and other aspects, as well as the positions they hold. But they were able to sit down and talk on the basis of reciprocity and mutual respect in Singapore. I think this was a positive development for the international community. It is also an encouragement for countries that are at odds with one another.

Q: As for relations with the United States, how would you describe Taiwan-US relations?
President Tsai: In recent years, we have started to feel growing support for Taiwan from the US, including from the Executive Branch, Congress, and also the general public. In particular, over the past two years, Congress has taken measures that are very supportive of Taiwan. So I would say that overall, Taiwan-US relations are in a state of growth. This is a stable and friendly relationship.

Q: Do you want to strengthen Taiwan-US relations?
President Tsai: Yes, we look forward to continuing to strengthen our relations with the US and other like-minded countries.

Q: Do you have any plan for increasing your military capacity?
President Tsai: In the face of China's threats, we feel the need for us to improve our self-defense capabilities. This is why we have sped up our efforts to ensure our self-sufficiency in defense, including by investing more into research and development and the modernization of our military equipment. This is all ongoing right now.

Q: Do you think the benefit from closer ties with Washington outweighs the countermeasures from Beijing? Is it enough? 
President Tsai: I think this is an issue of perspective. We have good friends that are close to us and others that are further from us. Our policy cannot be to ignore those who are closer to us in order to balance the feelings of those further away. What we hope is for those further away to come closer to us so that we can develop a friendlier relationship.

Q: You raised the Trump-Kim Summit as an example of how people can discuss their differences of opinion. Besides that, does this summit have any other significant implications to Taiwan and Asia as a whole? 
President Tsai: I think the Trump-Kim Summit is a very important step for this region. In the Asia-Pacific, there are a number of key issues that require people in this region to work together to resolve. The Korean Peninsula – which has been one of the main instigators of tensions in Northeast Asia for a long time – is one such issue. 

All of us have a common responsibility to maintain peace and stability in the region. The Trump-Kim Summit represents an effort to reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula. For the region, this is a major encouragement and a positive development.

Q: What is the biggest threat to stability in the region? Is it China's expansion or North Korea's nuclear weapon plan? 
President Tsai: I think that both things that you mentioned are factors leading to instability or represent threats to regional peace. While I am pleased to see the positive developments taking place on the Korean Peninsula, I also hope that China's expansion can take into account their position as a major power in the region, and their attitude towards maintaining peace, stability, and an atmosphere of respect in the region. This is the attitude that a major country in the region should have.

Q: Some countries regard China's expansion, including through the One Belt, One Road initiative, as a threat and not a benefit to the target countries. Do you agree with that or do you think it is good for peace and stability, and beneficial to everyone in the world? 
President Tsai: It may be positive or it may be negative. It would have to depend on China. If China's Belt and Road initiative comes with good intentions, which is to assist the economic development of other countries, I trust that other countries will feel China's goodwill – and this will be a positive thing.

However, if there are ulterior motives behind China's Belt and Road initiative, such as an intention to interfere with their domestic politics or influence their strategic position, this may not be something that other countries would want to see. Because basically, every country wants to protect their sovereignty and their values, and avoid interference from a third country.

Q: Thus far, do you think that the One Belt, One Road initiative has had a positive or a negative impact? 
President Tsai: I believe that this Belt and Road initiative is still in its initial phase, but we are already seeing many countries becoming more anxious and uneasy about it. I think that this reflects, in part, their suspicions about the intentions and motives of China.

Q: How do you see the growing relations and dialogue between the Vatican and China? Is this something that you fear? 
President Tsai: We are watching this in a calm and rational manner. At the same time we are also paying close attention to some of the matters both parties seem to be more concerned about in the negotiations. I think that many countries, and international society at large, are watching the developments closely, because this will have an impact on the protection of religious freedom. This will be a chance to see to what extent China will be able to respect religious freedom. Major countries across the world are watching this closely and I think this is a chance for China to demonstrate their position on this issue.

Q: You mentioned that, despite the loss of certain diplomatic allies, you have enjoyed greater exchanges with the US, Japan, and many other countries. Do you believe that this trend will help you face the pressure from China? Has it upset China even more? 
President Tsai: It is our responsibility to make sure that we are strong enough to face whatever challenges or pressure comes at us. This is our most important task as Taiwanese. But we also want to call on the international community to recognize the fact that the threat we face from China is also happening, to a certain extent, elsewhere around the world. 

This is not just a threat Taiwan faces, but has far-reaching implications for the region and around the world. If the international community believes freedom and democracy are important values – universal values – then we have to stand together to protect those values. Working together, we have to give China pressure so that it will uphold its responsibilities as a major country in the region.

Q: You think that China is not a responsible superpower?
President Tsai: I hope that they will become aware of their responsibilities.

Q: So they're not?
President Tsai: I think that this is something that China has to think about themselves and come to a conclusion of their own.

Q: Would you like to talk about Taiwanese identity? How would you like Taiwan to be recognized globally? 
President Tsai: Taiwan is a very unique place. Over the past couple hundreds of years, we have overcome a lot of challenges and threats to build a very strong democracy and economy, as well as a sound social structure. Overall, the people of Taiwan have created a distinct identity due to the challenges we have faced. This is our collective memory. It is something we are proud of. It is why the people of Taiwan choose to be recognized as Taiwanese. Our common memories, experiences, and values together make us Taiwanese.

Q: Has Taiwan's democratization caused you to become discouraged? As you improve ties with various countries, the world can better see how Taiwan is being isolated and how China is developing. Taiwan considers itself a model democracy and perhaps even deserves to be recognized for the fact, but yet it remains unacknowledged. Isn't this discouraging to you? 
President Tsai: Of course there are times when we feel frustrated. But the Taiwanese people do not have the option of giving up. Over past centuries, through our resilience, we have overcome so much hardship and challenge. Of course, we also hope that the international community can support and encourage Taiwan. This is one of the reasons we're having this interview today.

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2025-05-27
President Lai meets delegation from European Parliament
On the morning of May 27, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the European Parliament. In remarks, President Lai thanked the European Parliament for continuing to pay close attention to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and voice support for Taiwan. The president expressed hope for an even closer relationship and diversified cooperation between Taiwan and the European Union. The president said that Taiwan and the EU can work together in such areas as semiconductors, AI, and green energy to create more resilient supply chains for global democracies and contribute to global prosperity and development. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I warmly welcome our guests to the Presidential Office. After being elected last year, MEPs Reinis Pozņaks and Beatrice Timgren are making their first visits to Taiwan, demonstrating support for Taiwan through concrete action. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincerest welcome and appreciation. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the European Parliament for continuing to pay close attention to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Just last month, the European Parliament adopted resolutions with regard to annual reports on the implementation of the European Union’s Common Foreign and Security Policy and Common Security and Defence Policy. These resolutions reaffirmed the EU’s steadfast commitment to maintaining the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. The European Parliament also condemned China for continuing to take provocative military actions against Taiwan and emphasized that Taiwan is a key democratic partner in the Indo-Pacific region. It called on the EU and its member states to continue working closely with Taiwan to strengthen economic, trade, and investment ties. Once again, I thank the European Parliament for voicing support for Taiwan. Just as MEPs Pozņaks and Timgren are visiting Taiwan to strengthen Taiwan-EU exchanges, our Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei (郭智輝) also led a delegation to Europe last year, marking the first in-person dialogue between high-ranking economic and trade officials of Taiwan and the EU. Moving ahead, we look forward to bringing Taiwan-EU ties even closer and to diversifying our cooperation. The EU is Taiwan’s largest source of foreign investment. Both sides are highly complementary in such areas as semiconductors, AI, and green energy. Through our joint efforts, we can create more resilient supply chains for global democracies and further contribute to global prosperity and development. Looking ahead, I hope that MEPs Pozņaks and Timgren will continue to make the case in the European Parliament for the signing of a Taiwan-EU economic partnership agreement. This would not only yield mutually beneficial development, but also consolidate economic security and boost international competitiveness for both sides. In closing, I am sure that you will gain a deeper understanding of Taiwan through this visit. Please feel welcome to come back as often as possible as we continue to elevate Taiwan-EU ties.  MEP Pozņaks then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor to be here and thanking everybody involved in arranging this trip that allows them the opportunity to better know Taiwan. He added that it is definitely not the last time they will be here, as Taiwan is a very beautiful country. MEP Pozņaks mentioned that he comes from Latvia, and despite their being on the other side of the world, they know how the Taiwanese people feel, because they also have a big neighbor who is claiming that Latvia belongs to them. Unfortunately, he said, there is already war in Europe, but he is confident that their situation is similar to Taiwan’s, adding that they have a neighbor who uses disinformation attacks. MEP Pozņaks said that we live in very challenging times, and that our choices will define the future of the world, asking whether it will be a world where the rule of law prevails or where physical power and aggression succeeds. Coming from a small country, he said he clearly understands that for them there is no other possibility; they must protect the world where the rule of law prevails. That is why now, he emphasized, it is very crucial for all democracies around the world to stick together to protect our freedoms, values, and democracy. MEP Timgren then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for meeting with them and saying it is a big honor. Noting that they arrived here two days ago and that while she really loves Taiwan, its food, and the good weather, she stated that the reason they are here is because of the values that we share, our good relationships, and solidarity with other democratic countries in the world, which is important for them in Europe and in Sweden. MEP Timgren, referring to MEP Pozņaks’s earlier remarks, said that they face a big threat from Russia that is discernible even in the European Parliament. Actually, she pointed out, there is a war inside Europe that shows us how important it is that we support one another. She said that the Russian people thought it would be easy to take over Ukraine, but it was not, because all European countries stepped up and provided weapons and support. And that is why, MEP Timgren said, it is important that democratic countries maintain good relationships and let China and Russia see that we have good relationships, because a part of defense is solidarity. In closing, she expressed her gratitude for having the honor to be here in this beautiful country.
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2025-05-20
President Lai hosts state banquet for President Surangel Whipps Jr. of Republic of Palau
On the evening of May 20, President Lai Ching-te, accompanied by Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, hosted a state banquet at the Presidential Office in honor of President Surangel Whipps Jr. of the Republic of Palau and his wife. In remarks, President Lai said that he looks forward to working closely with President Whipps to promote tourism exchanges and sports cooperation so that Taiwan and Palau shine brightly together on the international stage. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a pleasure to host this banquet tonight at the Presidential Office for President Whipps, First Lady Valerie Whipps, and the esteemed members of their delegation. Welcome to Taiwan. During my trips to Palau in 2022 and last year, President and First Lady Whipps received me with great hospitality. Wearing my island shirt, I enjoyed a very friendly reception from the people of Palau. It felt warm and friendly, just like being welcomed back home. The first time I visited Palau, President Whipps and I piloted a boat to the Milky Way lagoon. We both tried volcanic mud facial masks. We also fished together and enjoyed the breeze as we walked on the beach. Last year, on my second visit to Palau, I was honored to be invited to address the National Congress. I also observed the results of the close bilateral cooperation between our two nations. Due to its world-famous ocean scenery, Palau is sometimes referred to as “God’s aquarium.” And it is even possible to snorkel with sharks. It leaves a deep impression. Nothing compares to seeing Palau firsthand. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Taiwan and Palau launched a travel bubble that created a safe means of travel. Now, with the pandemic behind us, I hope that even more Taiwanese can tour Palau and gain a greater understanding of our diplomatic ally. In addition to tourism exchanges, I mentioned on my visit to Palau last year that I hoped Taiwan and Palau could promote sports cooperation by providing training away from home. Next month, Palau will be holding the Pacific Mini Games. And right now, Palau’s national baseball and table tennis teams are holding training sessions here in Taiwan. We will do our utmost to support Palau’s national players and we hope they stand out and achieve outstanding results in the events. I look forward to working closely with President Whipps so that Taiwan and Palau shine brightly together on the international stage. Thank you! Mesulang! President Whipps then delivered remarks, saying that it is truly an honor to be here once again one year after President Lai’s inauguration. Mentioning that this is his first state visit after being reelected to a second term, he said that it is important to be here among friends, and that we are more than friends, we are family. He thanked President Lai for the generous words and, most importantly, Taiwan’s enduring support. He remarked that our relationship continues to get stronger in each passing year. President Whipps said that President Lai’s diplomacy initiative, leadership, and vision deeply resonate with them. Diplomacy must be rooted in our shared values, he said, and an unwavering support for our allies and a commitment to a sustainable, inclusive development are all deeply appreciated by their people. President Whipps emphasized that, as we look into the future and the challenges that we face, from security to climate change, it is so important that we are united. He added that it is important for the world, and especially important for them in Palau, that they stand up for Taiwan, so that Taiwan can participate on international fora that address climate change, security, and health, because they know the world is better when Taiwan has a seat at the table. Mentioning that Palau will host the Pacific Islands Forum next year, President Whipps said that Palau remains committed to working closely with Taiwan to ensure a successful event, and that they will continue to speak up for Taiwan’s indispensable contributions as we stand together against any efforts to silence or isolate democratic partners. President Whipps said that our nations have navigated challenges and emerged stronger, bound by a partnership that is built on trust, respect, and hope for a better world. Whether it is in clean energy, education, smart medicine, or tourism, our shared journey is just beginning, he said, and we are stronger together.  Also in attendance at the banquet were Palauan Minister of State Gustav Aitaro, Minister of Public Infrastructure and Industries Charles Obichang, Minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development Ngiraibelas Tmetuchl, Senate Floor Leader Kerai Mariur, House of Delegates Floor Leader Warren Umetaro, High Chief of Ngiwal State Elliot Udui, Governor of Peleliu State Emais Roberts, and Governor of Koror State Eyos Rudimch.
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2025-05-20
President Lai interviewed by Nippon Television and Yomiuri TV
In a recent interview on Nippon Television’s news zero program, President Lai Ching-te responded to questions from host Mr. Sakurai Sho and Yomiuri TV Shanghai Bureau Chief Watanabe Masayo on topics including reflections on his first year in office, cross-strait relations, China’s military threats, Taiwan-United States relations, and Taiwan-Japan relations. The interview was broadcast on the evening of May 19. During the interview, President Lai stated that China intends to change the world’s rules-based international order, and that if Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted. Therefore, he said, Taiwan will strengthen its national defense, prevent war by preparing for war, and achieve the goal of peace. The president also noted that Taiwan’s purpose for developing drones is based on national security and industrial needs, and that Taiwan hopes to collaborate with Japan. He then reiterated that China’s threats are an international problem, and expressed hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war. Following is the text of the questions and the president’s responses: Q: How do you feel as you are about to round out your first year in office? President Lai: When I was young, I was determined to practice medicine and save lives. When I left medicine to go into politics, I was determined to transform Taiwan. And when I was sworn in as president on May 20 last year, I was determined to strengthen the nation. Time flies, and it has already been a year. Although the process has been very challenging, I am deeply honored to be a part of it. I am also profoundly grateful to our citizens for allowing me the opportunity to give back to our country. The future will certainly be full of more challenges, but I will do everything I can to unite the people and continue strengthening the nation. That is how I am feeling now. Q: We are now coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and over this period, we have often heard that conflict between Taiwan and the mainland is imminent. Do you personally believe that a cross-strait conflict could happen? President Lai: The international community is very much aware that China intends to replace the US and change the world’s rules-based international order, and annexing Taiwan is just the first step. So, as China’s military power grows stronger, some members of the international community are naturally on edge about whether a cross-strait conflict will break out. The international community must certainly do everything in its power to avoid a conflict in the Taiwan Strait; there is too great a cost. Besides causing direct disasters to both Taiwan and China, the impact on the global economy would be even greater, with estimated losses of US$10 trillion from war alone – that is roughly 10 percent of the global GDP. Additionally, 20 percent of global shipping passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, so if a conflict breaks out in the strait, other countries including Japan and Korea would suffer a grave impact. For Japan and Korea, a quarter of external transit passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, and a third of the various energy resources and minerals shipped back from other countries pass through said areas. If Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted, and therefore conflict in the Taiwan Strait must be avoided. Such a conflict is indeed avoidable. I am very thankful to Prime Minister of Japan Ishiba Shigeru and former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo, Suga Yoshihide, and Kishida Fumio, as well as US President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden, and the other G7 leaders, for continuing to emphasize at international venues that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. When everyone in the global democratic community works together, stacking up enough strength to make China’s objectives unattainable or to make the cost of invading Taiwan too high for it to bear, a conflict in the strait can naturally be avoided. Q: As you said, President Lai, maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is also very important for other countries. How can war be avoided? What sort of countermeasures is Taiwan prepared to take to prevent war? President Lai: As Mr. Sakurai mentioned earlier, we are coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. There are many lessons we can take from that war. First is that peace is priceless, and war has no winners. From the tragedies of WWII, there are lessons that humanity should learn. We must pursue peace, and not start wars blindly, as that would be a major disaster for humanity. In other words, we must be determined to safeguard peace. The second lesson is that we cannot be complacent toward authoritarian powers. If you give them an inch, they will take a mile. They will keep growing, and eventually, not only will peace be unattainable, but war will be inevitable. The third lesson is why WWII ended: It ended because different groups joined together in solidarity. Taiwan, Japan, and the Indo-Pacific region are all directly subjected to China’s threats, so we hope to be able to join together in cooperation. This is why we proposed the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. First, we will strengthen our national defense. Second, we will strengthen economic resilience. Third is standing shoulder to shoulder with the democratic community to demonstrate the strength of deterrence. Fourth is that as long as China treats Taiwan with parity and dignity, Taiwan is willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China, and seek peace and mutual prosperity. These four pillars can help us avoid war and achieve peace. That is to say, Taiwan hopes to achieve peace through strength, prevent war by preparing for war, keeping war from happening and pursuing the goal of peace. Q: Regarding drones, everyone knows that recently, Taiwan has been actively researching, developing, and introducing drones. Why do you need to actively research, develop, and introduce new drones at this time? President Lai: This is for two purposes. The first is to meet national security needs. The second is to meet industrial development needs. Because Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines are all part of the first island chain, and we are all democratic nations, we cannot be like an authoritarian country like China, which has an unlimited national defense budget. In this kind of situation, island nations such as Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines should leverage their own technologies to develop national defense methods that are asymmetric and utilize unmanned vehicles. In particular, from the Russo-Ukrainian War, we see that Ukraine has successfully utilized unmanned vehicles to protect itself and prevent Russia from unlimited invasion. In other words, the Russo-Ukrainian War has already proven the importance of drones. Therefore, the first purpose of developing drones is based on national security needs. Second, the world has already entered the era of smart technology. Whether generative, agentic, or physical, AI will continue to develop. In the future, cars and ships will also evolve into unmanned vehicles and unmanned boats, and there will be unmanned factories. Drones will even be able to assist with postal deliveries, or services like Uber, Uber Eats, and foodpanda, or agricultural irrigation and pesticide spraying. Therefore, in the future era of comprehensive smart technology, developing unmanned vehicles is a necessity. Taiwan, based on industrial needs, is actively planning the development of drones and unmanned vehicles. I would like to take this opportunity to express Taiwan’s hope to collaborate with Japan in the unmanned vehicle industry. Just as we do in the semiconductor industry, where Japan has raw materials, equipment, and technology, and Taiwan has wafer manufacturing, our two countries can cooperate. Japan is a technological power, and Taiwan also has significant technological strengths. If Taiwan and Japan work together, we will not only be able to safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific region, but it will also be very helpful for the industrial development of both countries. Q: The drones you just described probably include examples from the Russo-Ukrainian War. Taiwan and China are separated by the Taiwan Strait. Do our drones need to have cross-sea flight capabilities? President Lai: Taiwan does not intend to counterattack the mainland, and does not intend to invade any country. Taiwan’s drones are meant to protect our own nation and territory. Q: Former President Biden previously stated that US forces would assist Taiwan’s defense in the event of an attack. President Trump, however, has yet to clearly state that the US would help defend Taiwan. Do you think that in such an event, the US would help defend Taiwan? Or is Taiwan now trying to persuade the US? President Lai: Former President Biden and President Trump have answered questions from reporters. Although their responses were different, strong cooperation with Taiwan under the Biden administration has continued under the Trump administration; there has been no change. During President Trump’s first term, cooperation with Taiwan was broader and deeper compared to former President Barack Obama’s terms. After former President Biden took office, cooperation with Taiwan increased compared to President Trump’s first term. Now, during President Trump’s second term, cooperation with Taiwan is even greater than under former President Biden. Taiwan-US cooperation continues to grow stronger, and has not changed just because President Trump and former President Biden gave different responses to reporters. Furthermore, the Trump administration publicly stated that in the future, the US will shift its strategic focus from Europe to the Indo-Pacific. The US secretary of defense even publicly stated that the primary mission of the US is to prevent China from invading Taiwan, maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific, and thus maintain world peace. There is a saying in Taiwan that goes, “Help comes most to those who help themselves.” Before asking friends and allies for assistance in facing threats from China, Taiwan must first be determined and prepared to defend itself. This is Taiwan’s principle, and we are working in this direction, making all the necessary preparations to safeguard the nation. Q: I would like to ask you a question about Taiwan-Japan relations. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, you made an appeal to give Japan a great deal of assistance and care. In particular, you visited Sendai to offer condolences. Later, you also expressed condolences and concern after the earthquakes in Aomori and Kumamoto. What are your expectations for future Taiwan-Japan exchanges and development? President Lai: I come from Tainan, and my constituency is in Tainan. Tainan has very deep ties with Japan, and of course, Taiwan also has deep ties with Japan. However, among Taiwan’s 22 counties and cities, Tainan has the deepest relationship with Japan. I sincerely hope that both of you and your teams will have an opportunity to visit Tainan. I will introduce Tainan’s scenery, including architecture from the era of Japanese rule, Tainan’s cuisine, and unique aspects of Tainan society, and you can also see lifestyles and culture from the Showa era.  The Wushantou Reservoir in Tainan was completed by engineer Mr. Hatta Yoichi from Kanazawa, Japan and the team he led to Tainan after he graduated from then-Tokyo Imperial University. It has nearly a century of history and is still in use today. This reservoir, along with the 16,000-km-long Chianan Canal, transformed the 150,000-hectare Chianan Plain into Taiwan’s premier rice-growing area. It was that foundation in agriculture that enabled Taiwan to develop industry and the technology sector of today. The reservoir continues to supply water to Tainan Science Park. It is used by residents of Tainan, the agricultural sector, and industry, and even the technology sector in Xinshi Industrial Park, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Because of this, the people of Tainan are deeply grateful for Mr. Hatta and very friendly toward the people of Japan. A major earthquake, the largest in 50 years, struck Tainan on February 6, 2016, resulting in significant casualties. As mayor of Tainan at the time, I was extremely grateful to then-Prime Minister Abe, who sent five Japanese officials to the disaster site in Tainan the day after the earthquake. They were very thoughtful and asked what kind of assistance we needed from the Japanese government. They offered to provide help based on what we needed. I was deeply moved, as former Prime Minister Abe showed such care, going beyond the formality of just sending supplies that we may or may not have actually needed. Instead, the officials asked what we needed and then provided assistance based on those needs, which really moved me. Similarly, when the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 or the later Kumamoto earthquakes struck, the people of Tainan, under my leadership, naturally and dutifully expressed their support. Even earlier, when central Taiwan was hit by a major earthquake in 1999, Japan was the first country to deploy a rescue team to the disaster area. On February 6, 2018, after a major earthquake in Hualien, former Prime Minister Abe appeared in a video holding up a message of encouragement he had written in calligraphy saying “Remain strong, Taiwan.” All of Taiwan was deeply moved. Over the years, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other when earthquakes struck, and have forged bonds that are family-like, not just neighborly. This is truly valuable. In the future, I hope Taiwan and Japan can be like brothers, and that the peoples of Taiwan and Japan can treat one another like family. If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem; if Japan has a problem, then Taiwan has a problem. By caring for and helping each other, we can face various challenges and difficulties, and pursue a brighter future. Q: President Lai, you just used the phrase “If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” In the event that China attempts to invade Taiwan by force, what kind of response measures would you hope the US military and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces take? President Lai: As I just mentioned, annexing Taiwan is only China’s first step. Its ultimate objective is to change the rules-based international order. That being the case, China’s threats are an international problem. So, I would very much hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war – prevention, after all, is more important than cure.
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