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2019-04-14
President Tsai attends Formosat-7 send-off ceremony
President Tsai attends Formosat-7 send-off ceremony

President Tsai Ing-wen traveled to Hsinchu City to take part in send-off activities for the Formosat-7 satellite on the morning of April 14. In addition to commending the hard work and accomplishments of the entire research and development team over the years, President Tsai also hailed Formosat-7 as a milestone in promoting Taiwan's technological diplomacy, noting that she expects it will display the brilliance of Taiwan's aerospace technology on the international stage.

In her remarks, the president indicated that just a few days earlier, Taiwan's Academia Sinica joined a multinational research team in releasing the first-ever images of a black hole. This is a momentous scientific advance, she noted, one in which Taiwan played a key role.

President Tsai said that today there was another bit of exciting news in Taiwan. Thanks to the efforts of the National Space Organization (NSPO) team, Formosat-7 would soon be shipped to the United States to prepare for launch, and a "Formosat" satellite would once again be launched into space.

The president said she clearly remembered that, after the launch of the Formosat-5 in August 2017, we encountered many challenges, but we overcame them one by one and successfully captured an image of Taiwan from space. She noted that this image is a source of pride for Taiwan, and that the stories of all the tears, sweat, and laughter during the process would make a great movie.

President Tsai noted that on June 22, we will again be launching a new satellite, and that the Formosat-7 will undertake meteorological observations free from the restrictions of geography or weather, enabling us to obtain even more accurate meteorological data. In particular, given Taiwan's needs, Formosat-7 will focus especially on observations of the Earth's low-latitude regions. She said that in the future, the accuracy of forecasts for intense weather events such as typhoon paths, seasonal rains, and powerful storms will be greatly enhanced, providing more effective protection for Taiwan's environment.

The president emphasized that Formosat-7 is also a milestone in Taiwan's technological diplomacy. Research and development of the Formosat-7 satellite constellation was the result of the largest-scale project in the history of scientific cooperation between Taiwan and the United States, and the observational data obtained by the satellite can be shared with other nations for the benefit of mankind as a whole. She noted that these achievements were good news that will inspire Taiwan. She gave high praise to the achievements of the NSPO, and thanked all the teams that participated in the project for their efforts.

The president said that to go into space, view black holes, explore the vastness of the universe, and unravel more scientific mysteries are dreams held by the people of Taiwan, and all of mankind. She said that with our scientific and technological prowess, we possess excellent qualifications to pursue such an outer-space dream. Therefore, the first official document that Executive Yuan Premier Su Tseng-chang (蘇貞昌) signed this year was to approve the third National Space Technology Long-Term Development Program for a period of ten years, with a planned budget of NTD$25.1 billion.

President Tsai pointed out that we must continue to enhance our independent space research and development capabilities, remain on the cutting edge, and take full advantage of the benefits of the aerospace industrial chain. She noted that the systems design, ground control planning, and data processing for Formosat-7 were all completed in Taiwan, which is important for making our space endeavors economically efficient.

Finally, the president noted that Formosat-7 will embark on its journey to the United States tomorrow, and she wished a smooth launch in advance for the six satellites of the Formosat-7 system. She said that Taiwan's space dream, and Taiwan's prowess in space technology, would definitely shine brilliantly on the international stage. Let us all keep up our efforts, and continue to dream big, she said.

Shortly after, President Tsai joined the guests present in the send-off ceremony, and viewed the satellite's carrier as it began its journey.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the president spoke to the media present. She said that she was in Hsinchu today to jointly witness the official send-off for Formosat-7 as it travels to the United States for its later launch. The purpose of her visit was twofold, she said: she wanted to pay witness to Taiwan's technological achievements, and at the same time, give encouragement to the entire team that worked on the project. She said that the team's work was grueling, because they were shouldering responsibility for Taiwan's space dream. For the people of Taiwan, reaching space was once a far-off dream, but now we can see that it is actually achievable. The fact that our scientists can make contributions to science in outer space is something that should be exciting to all the people of Taiwan.

The president pointed out that Taiwan plays a key role in many areas outside of space science as well. For example, Taiwan's presence plays a key role in the geopolitics of the Indo-Pacific region. She expressed her belief that all of Taiwan's people feel the same excitement and pride that she does.

President Tsai said that in addition to securing our nation's security and prosperity, she hopes our nation's people can go out into the world and feel a sense of pride and honor in being Taiwanese.

In response to questions regarding the government's efforts to bolster the economy, President Tsai indicated that we have been taking concrete actions. There are many obstacles to overcome, and we must mobilize the entire strength of the nation to help businesses overcome the various difficulties they face.

The president pointed out that Taiwanese firms were returning to Taiwan at a rapid rate, and on a large scale. Current cumulative monetary figures stand at nearly NTD$120 billion, creating more than 10,000 job opportunities, and the number continues to increase. At the same time, foreign firms continue to increase their investments in Taiwan, while also continuing to train Taiwanese technical personnel, since they believe in the top-notch quality of Taiwan's workforce.

The president emphasized that these things are happening because the government's policies are correct, giving people confidence in Taiwan's government as well as confidence in our investment environment. She said that is why we have recently seen Taiwanese firms returning, and foreign firms increasing their investments in Taiwan. 

Attendees included Legislator Ker Chien-ming (柯建銘), Minister of Science and Technology Chen Liang-Gee (陳良基), Hsinchu Mayor Lin Chih-chien (林智堅), Hsinchu County Magistrate Yang Wen-ke (楊文科), National Applied Research Laboratories President Wang Yeong-her (王永和), and NSPO Director General Lin Chun-liang (林俊良).

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President Tsai meets Stanford University Professor Andrew Ng
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President Tsai attends 2021 Energy Taiwan opening ceremony
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2023-09-27
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President Lai delivers 2025 New Year’s Address
On the morning of January 1, President Lai Ching-te delivered his 2025 New Year’s Address, titled “Bolstering National Strength through Democracy to Enter a New Global Landscape,” in the Reception Hall of the Presidential Office. President Lai stated that today’s Taiwan is receiving international recognition for its performance in many areas, among them democracy, technology, and economy. In this new year, he said, Taiwan must be united, and we must continue on the right course. The president expressed hope that everyone in the central and local governments, regardless of party, can work hard together, allowing Taiwan sure footing as it strides forward toward ever greater achievements.  President Lai emphasized that in 2025, we must keep firm on the path of democracy, continue to bolster our national strength, make Taiwan more economically resilient, enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies, and continue working toward a Balanced Taiwan and generational justice, ensuring that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people. The president said that Taiwan will keep going strong, and we will keep walking tall as we enter the new global landscape. A translation of President Lai’s address follows: Today is the first day of 2025. With a new year comes new beginnings. I wish that Taiwan enjoys peace, prosperity, and success, and that our people lead happy lives. Taiwan truly finished 2024 strong. Though there were many challenges, there were also many triumphs. We withstood earthquakes and typhoons, and stood firm in the face of constant challenges posed by authoritarianism. We also shared glory as Taiwan won the Premier12 baseball championship, and now Taiwanese people around the world are all familiar with the gesture for Team Taiwan. At the Paris Olympics, Wang Chi-lin (王齊麟) and Lee Yang (李洋) clinched another gold in men’s doubles badminton. Lin Yu-ting (林郁婷) took home Taiwan’s first Olympic gold in boxing. At the International Junior Science Olympiad, every student in our delegation of six won a gold medal. And Yang Shuang-zi’s (楊双子) novel Taiwan Travelogue, translated into English by King Lin (金翎), became a United States National Book Award winner and a tour de force of Taiwan literature on the international level. Our heroes of Taiwan are defined by neither age nor discipline. They have taken home top prizes at international competitions and set new records. They tell Taiwan’s story through their outstanding performances, letting the world see the spirit and culture of Taiwan, and filling all our citizens with pride. My fellow citizens, we have stood together through thick and thin; we have shared our ups and downs. We have wept together, and we have laughed together. We are all one family, all members of Team Taiwan. I want to thank each of our citizens for their dedication, fueling Taiwan’s progress and bringing our nation glory. You have given Taiwan even greater strength to stand out on the global stage. In this new year, we must continue bringing Taiwan’s stories to the world, and make Taiwan’s successes a force for global progress. In 2025, the world will be entering a new landscape. Last year, over 70 countries held elections, and the will of the people has changed with the times. As many countries turn new pages politically, and in the midst of rapid international developments, Taiwan must continue marching forward with steady strides. First, we must keep firm on the path of democracy. Taiwan made it through a dark age of authoritarianism and has since become a glorious beacon of democracy in Asia. This was achieved through the sacrifices of our democratic forebears and the joint efforts of all our citizens. Democracy’s value to Taiwan lies not just in our free way of life, or in the force driving the diverse and vigorous growth of our society. Democracy is the brand that has earned us international trust in terms of diplomacy. No matter the threat or challenge Taiwan may face, democracy is Taiwan’s only path forward. We will not turn back. Domestic competition among political parties is a part of democracy. But domestic political disputes must be resolved democratically, within the constitutional system. This is the only way democracy can continue to grow. The Executive Yuan has the right to request a reconsideration of the controversial bills passed in the Legislative Yuan, giving it room for reexamination. Constitutional institutions can also lodge a petition for a constitutional interpretation, and through Constitutional Court adjudication, ensure a separation of powers, safeguard constitutional order, and gradually consolidate the constitutional system. The people also have the right of election, recall, initiative, and referendum, and can bring together even greater democratic power to show the true meaning of sovereignty in the hands of the people. In this new year, the changing international landscape will present democratic nations around the world with many grave challenges. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflict between Israel and Hamas rage on, and we are seeing the continued convergence of authoritarian regimes including China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, threatening the rules-based international order and severely affecting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and the world at large. Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. Taiwan needs to prepare for danger in times of peace. We must continue increasing our national defense budget, bolster our national defense capabilities, and show our determination to protect our country. Everyone has a responsibility to safeguard Taiwan’s democracy and security. We must gather together every bit of strength we have to enhance whole-of-society defense resilience, and build capabilities to respond to major disasters and deter threats or encroachment. We must also strengthen communication with society to combat information and cognitive warfare, so that the populace rejects threats and enticements and jointly guards against malicious infiltration by external forces. Here at home, we must consolidate democracy with democracy. Internationally, we must make friends worldwide through democracy. This is how we will ensure security and peace. The more secure Taiwan, the more secure the world. The more resilient Taiwan, the sounder the defense of global democracy. The global democratic community should work even closer together to support the democratic umbrella as we seek ways to resolve the war in Ukraine and conflict between Israel and Hamas. Together, we must uphold stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific, and achieve our goal of global peace. Second, we must continue to bolster our national strength, make Taiwan more economically resilient, and enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies. In the first half of 2024, growth in the Taiwan Stock Index was the highest in the world. Our economic growth rate for the year as a whole is expected to reach 4.2 percent, leading among the Four Asian Tigers. Domestic investment is soaring, having exceeded NT$5 trillion, and inflation is gradually stabilizing. Export orders from January to November totaled US$536.6 billion, up 3.7 percent from the same period in 2023. And compared over the same period, exports saw a 9.9 percent increase, reaching US$431.5 billion. Recent surveys also show that in 2024, the average increase in salaries at companies was higher than that in 2023. Additionally, over 90 percent of companies plan to raise salaries this year, which is an eight-year high. All signs indicate that Taiwan’s economic climate continues to recover, and that our economy is growing steadily. Our overall economic performance is impressive; still, we must continue to pay attention to the impact on Taiwan’s industries from the changing geopolitical landscape, uncertainties in the global economic environment, and dumping by the “red supply chain.”  For a nation, all sectors and professions are equally important; only when all our industries are strong can Taiwan be strong as a nation. Our micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are the lifeblood of Taiwan, and the development of our various industrial parks has given Taiwan the impetus for our prosperity. We must carry the spirit of “Made in Taiwan” forward, bringing it to ever greater heights. Thus, beyond just developing our high-tech industry, our Executive Yuan has already proposed a solution that will help traditional industries and MSMEs comprehensively adopt technology applications, engage in the digital and net-zero twin transition, and develop channels, all for better operational structures and higher productivity. Taiwan must continue enhancing its economic resilience. In recent years, Taiwan has significantly increased its investments in the US, Japan, Europe, and the New Southbound countries, and such investment has already surpassed investment in China. This indicates that our efforts in diversifying markets and reducing reliance on any single market are working. Moving forward, we must keep providing assistance so that Taiwan industries can expand their global presence and market internationally from a solid base here in Taiwan. At the same time, Taiwan must use democracy to promote economic growth with the rest of the world. We must leverage our strengths in the semiconductor and AI industries. We must link with democratic countries so that we can together enhance the resilience of supply chains for global democracies. And through international cooperation across many sectors, such as UAVs, low-orbit communications satellites, robots, military, security and surveillance, or biopharmaceuticals, renewable energy technology, new agriculture, and the circular economy, we must keep abreast of the latest cutting-edge technology and promote diverse development. This approach will help Taiwan remain a leader in advancing global democratic supply chains, ensuring their security and stability. Third, we must continue working toward a Balanced Taiwan and generational justice, ensuring that the fruits of our economic growth can be enjoyed by all our people. Democracy means the people have the final say. Our nation belongs to all 23 million of us, without regard for ethnic group, generation, political party, or whether we live in urban or rural areas. In this new year, we must continue to pursue policies that promote the well-being of the nation and the people. But to that end, the central government needs adequate financial resources to ensure that it can enact each of these measures. Therefore, I hope that the ruling and opposition parties can each soberly reconsider the amendments to the Act Governing the Allocation of Government Revenues and Expenditures and find a path forward that ensures the lasting peace and stability of our country. For nine consecutive years, the minimum wage has continued to rise. Effective today, the minimum monthly salary is being raised from NT$27,470 to NT$28,590, and the hourly salary from NT$183 to NT$190. We hope by raising the pay for military personnel, civil servants, and educators for two consecutive years, coupled with benefits through wage increases and tax reductions, that private businesses will also raise wages, allowing all our people to enjoy the fruits of our economic growth. I know that everyone wants to pay lower taxes and rent. This year, we will continue to promote tax reductions. For example, unmarried individuals with an annual income of NT$446,000 or less can be exempt from paying income tax. Dual-income families with an annual income of NT$892,000 or less and dual-income families with two children aged six or younger with an annual income of NT$1,461,000 or less are also exempt from paying income tax. Additionally, the number of rent-subsidized housing units will also be increased, from 500,000 to 750,000 units, helping lighten the load for everyone. This year, the age eligibility for claiming Culture Points has been lowered from 16 to 13 years, so that now young people aged between 13 and 22 can receive government support for experiencing more in the arts. Also, our Ten-Billion-Dollar Youth Overseas Dream Fund is about to take effect, which will help more young people in Taiwan realize their dreams by taking part in education and exchange activities in many places around the world. We are also in the process of establishing a sports ministry to help young athletes achieve their dreams on the field, court, and beyond. The ministry will also be active in developing various sports industries and bringing sports and athletics more into the lives of the people, making our people healthier as a result. This year, as Taiwan becomes a “super-aged society,” we will launch our Long-term Care 3.0 Plan to provide better all-around care for our seniors. And we will expand the scope of cancer screening eligibility and services, all aimed at creating a Healthy Taiwan. In addition, Taiwan will officially begin collecting fees for its carbon fee system today. This brings us closer in line with global practices and helps us along the path to our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. We will also continue on the path to achieving a Balanced Taiwan. Last month, the Executive Yuan launched the Trillion NT Dollar Investment National Development Plan and its six major regional flagship projects. Both of these initiatives will continue to expand the investment in our public infrastructure and the development of local specialty industries, narrowing urban-rural and wealth gaps so that all our people can live and work in peace and happiness. My fellow citizens, today’s Taiwan is receiving international recognition for its performance in many areas, among them democracy, technology, and economy. This tells us that national development is moving in the right direction. In this new year, Taiwan must be united, and we must continue on the right course. We hope that everyone in the central and local governments, regardless of party, can work hard together to ensure that national policies are successfully implemented, with the people’s well-being as our top priority. This will allow Taiwan sure footing as it strides forward toward ever greater achievements. In this new year, we have many more brilliant stories of Taiwan to share with the world, inspiring all Taiwanese, both here and around the world, to cheer time and again for the glory of Taiwan. Taiwan will keep going strong. And we will keep walking tall as we enter the new global landscape. Thank you.
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