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2021-08-10
President Tsai interviewed by Bungei Shunju magazine

President Tsai Ing-wen was recently interviewed via videoconference by the Japanese monthly magazine Bungei Shunju, during which she responded to questions from Dr. Yoichi Funabashi about Taiwan's COVID-19 response, Taiwan-US-Japan relations, cross-strait relations, the situation in Hong Kong, the development of Taiwan's semiconductor industry, Taiwan's international participation, and regional security and economics.

A translation of the interview follows:

Dr. Funabashi: Since last year, the spread of COVID-19 has caused chaos internationally. In East Asia, we have also seen attempts to use power to change the status quo, increasing geopolitical risk. Taiwan's position in all of this has attracted broad international attention. The direction Taiwan takes is also a matter of concern for Japan. I am honored to have this opportunity to conduct this virtual interview with you today, President Tsai.

President Tsai: It is an honor for me as well. As president of Taiwan, I would first like to congratulate the government and citizens of Japan. Last March, it was decided that the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics were to be postponed by a year due to the spread of the global pandemic. Many other complications followed, but Japan overcame these obstacles to hold the Olympics beginning in July. As Japan's island neighbor, I would like to express Taiwan's sincere congratulations.

The Japanese government needed great determination and courage to hold the Olympics before the pandemic subsided. And I am sure that seeing athletes competing and testing their limits was a source of encouragement for many suffering from the pandemic.


Dr. Funabashi: I would first like to ask about Taiwan's COVID-19 response. In the early days of the pandemic, Taiwan successfully kept the virus at bay, becoming a model of disease prevention.

President Tsai: Having taken lessons from the SARS epidemic in 2003, we set up our Ministry of Health and Welfare's Centers for Disease Control (Taiwan CDC), which was modeled after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States. Before the pandemic reached Taiwan, Taiwan CDC had already begun to implement preventive measures under expert guidance. Our experience helped us effectively respond to the spread of COVID-19.


Dr. Funabashi: But in May this year, a highly infectious variant appeared and local transmission increased. Vaccine supply was unstable, Taiwan had the lowest vaccination rate among advanced countries, and it seemed like government authorities faced severe criticism.

President Tsai: Taiwan raised the nationwide epidemic alert to Level 3 on May 19, limiting gatherings, closing entertainment venues, and restricting people's movements. And due to a global shortage, the vaccines we had purchased couldn't be delivered as scheduled. That had a major effect on many citizens, and caused widespread unease.

But thanks to the unremitting efforts of our government and people, by the beginning of July the situation here was relatively stable. The lower number of new domestic infections showed that the outbreak was under control. On July 27, the epidemic alert was lowered from Level 3 to Level 2, and the public felt more reassured. But there's no room for complacency, and we will continue this work so that we can gradually return to our pre-pandemic lives.
 

Dr. Funabashi: Addressing Taiwan's vaccine supply at a press conference on May 26, you stated that "China intervened" in Taiwan's contract to purchase COVID-19 vaccines from Germany's BioNTech. Is China still "intervening"?

President Tsai: At that time, we did indeed face great difficulty in purchasing vaccines. That brought international attention to Taiwan, and countries including Japan and the US helped out by providing vaccines. I want to take this opportunity to express our sincere thanks.

When the first batch of vaccines from Japan arrived at Taiwan's Taoyuan International Airport on June 4, local TV channels broadcast live from the scene, and many in Taiwan welcomed the shipment. I clearly recall the plane's arrival. This was a testament to the long-standing friendship between our countries. Japan extended a helping hand when Taiwan needed it most, for which the people of Taiwan are extremely grateful.

Taiwan's government also formally authorized private enterprises and groups to negotiate vaccine purchases. As a result, the major Taiwanese corporations Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn), as well as the charity Tzu Chi Foundation, successfully purchased vaccines through public-private sector cooperation.

Clinical trials for our domestically produced vaccines have also shown promising results, and we hope to start administering them as soon as possible. Compared to the initial stage of our vaccine acquisition efforts, supply has now stabilized. But to satisfy future public demand, we are continuing all-out efforts on this front.


Dr. Funabashi: New daily infections in Taiwan are now in the single or double digits, which is low compared with Europe or the US. In the development of Taiwan's domestically produced vaccines, was it difficult to conduct large-scale clinical trials requiring tens of thousands of participants?

President Tsai: Because there were several times more participants in our expanded Phase 2 clinical trials than is usual for this phase, we were able to gather more data. We also adopted the immunobridging approach used in clinical trials overseas. This approach can shorten the time needed to approve a new vaccine. We understand that Japan has recently adopted a similar method.


Dr. Funabashi: During the pandemic, there have been reports that China has been attempting to divide Taiwanese society by frequently spreading false information online, such as fake news claiming that the vaccines donated by Japan caused a sharp spike in the number of deaths. What do you think is the best approach for responding to politically motivated activity like disinformation? This is not just an issue for Taiwan, but a concern shared by Japan and other countries.
 
President Tsai: We view public communication as a critically important part of our response to infectious diseases. For example, since our Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) was activated back in January 2020, it has held press conferences every day, without exception, to explain our government's pandemic response strategies. These daily press conferences also allow the media to ask questions. This lets everyone see the question-and-answer process and is an extremely transparent way of providing information. These press conferences have had some success in preventing the spread of fake news. We also provide disease-prevention information to the public every day on official LINE accounts, through public service TV broadcasts, and on social media including Twitter and Facebook.

Because of these measures, the CECC has gained a high level of trust from the public, who are willing to follow the isolation and testing measures called for by the CECC as well as its guidelines for priority vaccination candidates. It helps when the government and public work together to fight the pandemic.


Dr. Funabashi: Next, I would like to turn to international affairs. The joint statement issued by the leaders of Japan and the US following their summit meeting in April included language underscoring the "importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait." That was the first time that the leaders of Japan and the US had mentioned Taiwan at a summit since President Richard Nixon and Prime Minister Eisaku Sato met in 1969, half a century ago. What did you think about the joint statement? 

President Tsai: We followed the Japan-US summit closely. I want to thank both countries for showing the importance they place on peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

The importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait was also mentioned at the G7 Summit hosted by the UK in June. This shows that the world's major advanced countries see this peace and stability as critically important, and is ample proof that Taiwan is not the one undermining the status quo across the Taiwan Strait.

Peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is not just about Taiwan's interests. We believe that Taiwan can play a key role for all countries in the Free and Open Indo-Pacific. We will continue to engage in communication and exchanges with like-minded countries in order to contribute to the peace and prosperity of countries in the Indo-Pacific region.


Dr. Funabashi: Some think that the joint statements issued following the Japan-US summit and the G7 Summit mentioned the Taiwan Strait because the US and its allies are very concerned about their decreasing ability to deter China. Do you also think that the ability of the US to deter China has declined?

President Tsai: Over the past few years, China has made clear its far-reaching ambitions in the Asia-Pacific region. That has introduced a great deal of uncertainty into the region's overall prospects for peace, stability, and security. Under these circumstances, when Japan, the US, and other countries discuss and express their concern about the Taiwan Strait, they are actually sending a message to China as it continues to expand its military activities. 

When implementing policy decisions, China should have to consider trends in the international community. I believe that the more attention major advanced countries pay to Taiwan, and the stronger our cooperation with them, the more careful China will have to be in its policy decisions, including those about military activities.


Dr. Funabashi: Compared to China, Taiwan's national defense budget has not increased significantly, and observers have pointed out that the gap between Taiwan and China's military power has widened considerably.

President Tsai: Because our national defense budget is indeed limited, our approach is to concentrate resources on upgrading our asymmetric warfare capabilities and enhancing our self-sufficiency in defense. This includes indigenously-developed precision and highly mobile weapons.

Cooperation and dialogue with neighboring countries is also essential. We hope to soon form a security dialogue mechanism for the East Asia region, because Taiwan is willing to assume its responsibility for safeguarding regional peace. 

Taiwan's consistent position is that we will neither bow to pressure nor act rashly when we have support. Regional peace and prosperity are key considerations when we formulate security strategies, and we are willing to work to upgrade our self-defense capabilities.


Dr. Funabashi: In addition to rapidly expanding its military power and weaponizing its economy, China has also broadened its "wolf warrior diplomacy" offensive. Although Japan and the US want to stabilize their economic ties with China, they have also realized that there is a need for systems that can fully ensure their economic security. They have also been compelled to strengthen their ability to deter China in terms of diplomacy and security. Difficult challenges are inevitable in managing ties with China, and I believe this is the case for Taiwan as well. Which aspect of this are you especially concerned about?

President Tsai: National leaders throughout the Asia-Pacific region are all facing the challenges you pointed out. We need to maintain a certain level of economic relations with China, but we feel uneasy about security issues. This is an extremely difficult issue, which poses a greater challenge to Taiwan than perhaps any other country.

In dealing with China, the Taiwan government's position is to maintain the status quo, which is a "no provocation" policy. One important point here is to break away from our current reliance on China-produced goods, components, and software, and to develop more diversified trade and investment.


Dr. Funabashi: The US would like to decouple its supply chains from China's economy.

President Tsai: Our position is that we should not be over-reliant on China as a production base or market. While taking various risks into consideration, we are seeking to diversify trade and investment. Although many Taiwanese enterprises currently have production bases in China, we need to diversify our trade partnerships and investment destinations going forward. Of course, in addition to Japan and the US, we also hope to establish trade and investment relationships with ASEAN and countries including Australia, New Zealand, and India. This is an unprecedented challenge, but it should bring significant economic opportunities for Taiwan.


Dr. Funabashi: I would also like to ask about your economic growth strategy. What factors have contributed to the stunning growth of Taiwan's high-tech sector in recent years?

President Tsai: Prior to 2016, Taiwan's economic growth had stagnated. In May of that year, when I became president, I proposed the 5+2 innovative industries plan with the goal of developing and cultivating seven industries, including green energy and biomedicine. I believe that government efforts over the past five years have increased Taiwan's importance in global supply chains.


Dr. Funabashi: Taiwan's semiconductor industry leads the world, accounting for 70 percent of all contract semiconductor manufacturing worldwide in 2020.

President Tsai: Thank you. I believe that Taiwan's semiconductor industry will continue to play an indispensable role in global supply chains.

There are two factors that make Taiwan's semiconductor industry highly competitive. The first is having well-established production clusters with an extremely efficient support system covering everything from R&D to production and manufacturing.

The other factor is the Taiwanese semiconductor industry's unique business model. Our semiconductor production is focused on contract wafer production, allowing it to avoid competition with other enterprises. Concentrating on contract manufacturing instead of vertical integration means we do not face excessive competition and can build mutually cooperative relationships with other businesses.


Dr. Funabashi: The idea that industrial policy should be at the core of national development strategy is making a comeback around the world. Japan and the US want to strengthen their semiconductor industries, and have repeatedly recruited Taiwanese semiconductor vendors to set up manufacturing facilities. In an era like this, what kind of semiconductor industry policy is the Taiwan government now considering?

President Tsai: Attracting semiconductor factories will not only help Japan and the US meet domestic demand, but will also have significant benefits for Taiwan. For example, Japan has advantages over Taiwan in certain areas such as semiconductor manufacturing equipment and materials. The US also has exceptional technical capabilities in semiconductor production. If we can combine the strengths of Taiwanese firms with those of Japan and the US, we can all play complementary roles in each other's development. If Taiwanese enterprises can learn more in this process, that would certainly help further improve our manufacturing technology and R&D.


Dr. Funabashi: What is your strategy for talent development in the high-tech sector?

President Tsai: A first-class industry needs first-class talent, which has been the most important factor in semiconductor industry growth. The Taiwan government is actively developing talent by working to improve digital capabilities, strengthen language abilities, and enhance our global vision.

It is very difficult to rely on Taiwan alone for outstanding talent, however. Taiwan's semiconductor industry is developing in countries around the world, and is cooperating with those countries to establish joint talent pools with local personnel. By promoting this mechanism, we hope to attract outstanding foreign talent to Taiwan.

I am currently implementing our Six Core Strategic Industries policy, which covers digital technology, 5G, biomedicine, strategic national defense, green energy, and strategic stockpile industries. We are also fully committed to putting all our nation's resources behind this initiative, and hope that these industries outside the semiconductor sector will play a key role in economic development.


Dr. Funabashi: Taiwan's contract wafer fabrication industry, which includes TSMC, has grown into a world leader. But as enterprises become more globalized, it usually becomes harder for governments to exert influence on them. Strengthening public-private sector cooperation is no easy task. What solutions do you see for difficult industrial policy issues in the age of globalization?

President Tsai: Fortunately, Taiwan's semiconductor industry and government have built a close and long-standing relationship that continues to this day.

The hallmark of Taiwan's semiconductor industry is the importance it places on corporate social responsibility. For example, our firms have enthusiastically committed themselves to green energy, which reduces the burden on our environment. TSMC has already signed a number of contracts to purchase green energy, making it Taiwan's leading corporate buyer of green energy and a strong supporter of our government's environmental policies. TSMC's vaccine purchase was also a major contribution.

In fact, the Taiwan government is still a major TSMC shareholder. Although the government has considerable influence on TSMC's operations, we have the utmost respect for the company's policy decisions. Our semiconductor industry's tremendous growth was possible because the public and private sectors built a relationship based on mutual respect and cooperation.


Dr. Funabashi: I know that Taiwan is looking at the possibility of joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) multilateral trade agreement. You were actively involved as the lead negotiator in Taiwan's talks to join the World Trade Organization (WTO), so if you were leading Taiwan's negotiations to accede to the CPTPP, how would you plan to go about it?

President Tsai: Taiwan actually began preparing to join the CPTPP very early. The CPTPP is a regional free trade agreement with stringent trade liberalization requirements. We are currently reviewing our economic and trade policies to see where restrictions can be adjusted and where we need more comprehensive regulation, while conducting reviews on a rolling basis. I am confident that Taiwan's accession to the CPTPP would fundamentally benefit the region's economy in many ways.


Dr. Funabashi: What will be the most challenging obstacles, internal or external, during accession negotiations?

President Tsai: We expect political obstacles. A CPTPP applicant must be approved by all countries that are parties to the agreement, but that includes countries that do not have diplomatic relations with Taiwan. I think the key issue now is how we get those countries to support us during the accession process. Fortunately, countries that have close ties with Taiwan, including Japan, have expressed that they welcome our participation. To help Taiwan achieve CPTPP membership, we hope to receive their continued support, and would be very grateful to Japan for this.


Dr. Funabashi: I would also like to ask you about the World Health Organization (WHO) issue. Taiwan has long wanted to participate in the World Health Assembly, but hasn't been able to do so thus far.

President Tsai: Global public health should not have geographical gaps. Taiwan is one of the world's major trading nations and the hub of the global semiconductor supply chain, and has a significant international presence. We have also made breakthroughs in biomedical technology, medicine, and public health. If we could participate in the WHO, I am sure we would be able to contribute more to global public health. The right to health of Taiwan's 23 million people should not be ignored or restricted because of a certain political ideology.


Dr. Funabashi: Lastly, I want to turn to what China's government is doing in Hong Kong and the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Over the past several years, China's government has been suppressing human rights in these regions, which the international community sees as a major problem. How do you view the current situation?

President Tsai: Democracy, freedom, and human rights are universal values. We urge the Beijing authorities to stop repressing the Hong Kong and Uyghur peoples. It is now more important than ever that Japan and other democratic nations come together to defend our democratic values.


Dr. Funabashi: In July last year, Hong Kong enacted a National Security Law passed by the Chinese government to prohibit anti-government movements. China once promised it would grant Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy under the "one country, two systems" model, but that is now seen as an empty promise. "One country, two systems" is just a myth. What effect has the fate of "one country, two systems" had on politics in Taiwan?

President Tsai: The people of Hong Kong are engaged in a struggle for freedom, human rights, and democracy. The international community should make a strong show of support for them.

When Hong Kong was returned by the UK to China in 1997, China promised to leave "one country, two systems" unchanged for 50 years. But watching developments in Hong Kong over the past few years, that promise no longer exists.

In January 2019, the Beijing government urged Taiwan to unify with China under the same "one country, two systems" framework as Hong Kong. But the current situation in Hong Kong proves that system cannot possibly be realized, and that it is hard to believe the Beijing government's promises. We absolutely will not accept the Beijing government's proposed "one country, two systems" model, nor will it be an option in the future. This is the consensus among the people of Taiwan.


Dr. Funabashi: People in Taiwan pay close attention to politics, but 40 percent of the public have no party affiliation. What does the rise of non-affiliation mean? And how do you think politicians and political parties should respond?

President Tsai: Regardless of political ideology or party affiliation, the Taiwan consensus is a commitment to a free and democratic life and the hope that Taiwan can further engage with the world. I think that politicians and political parties should respond to the people's expectations and continue their efforts to strengthen Taiwan's democracy.

The work of any politician or political party is to regularly review policies and make constant improvements. Whether running for office or implementing policies, politicians have to remain vigilant and cautious in their work to gain the support of the majority.


Dr. Funabashi: Ten years from now, what kind of country would you like Taiwan to become?

President Tsai: First, a society that respects democracy, human rights, and equality. Second, a country that promotes regional peace and security. Third, even when faced with many difficulties and challenges, I hope Taiwan can be resolute in its survival, becoming a model recognized by people worldwide.


Dr. Funabashi: Thank you very much, Madam President, for devoting so much time to this interview. Would you please say a few final words to the people of Japan?

President Tsai: Taiwan and Japan have long enjoyed a good relationship. In trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges, we have become close partners, and there is a deep mutual affection between the peoples of our two countries. Throughout the history of Taiwan-Japan relations, whenever one side has encountered difficulties, the other side has swiftly extended a helping hand. This is the true meaning of "a friend in need is a friend indeed."

In the future, Taiwan will work to assist other countries in many ways in order to give back to the international community.

Taiwan and Japan are both democratic countries. Going forward, we should strengthen cooperation based on our shared values. The virtuous cycle created by this mutual care and support is extremely important, and I would like to pass this relationship down to the next generation. Once again, thank you to everyone in Japan. We are truly grateful.


Bungei Shunju magazine was founded in 1923 by Japan's Bungeishunju Ltd. Published on the 10th of each month, it covers a wide range of topics including politics, economics, society, and history, and is a long-running general interest magazine in Japan, where it remains well known and highly influential. The interviewer, Dr. Yoichi Funabashi, is a senior journalist and author who is now chairman of the Japanese think tank Asia Pacific Initiative.

Related News
Details
2025-03-13
President Lai holds press conference following high-level national security meeting
On the afternoon of March 13, President Lai Ching-te convened a high-level national security meeting, following which he held a press conference. In remarks, President Lai introduced 17 major strategies to respond to five major national security and united front threats Taiwan now faces: China’s threat to national sovereignty, its threats from infiltration and espionage activities targeting Taiwan’s military, its threats aimed at obscuring the national identity of the people of Taiwan, its threats from united front infiltration into Taiwanese society through cross-strait exchanges, and its threats from using “integrated development” to attract Taiwanese businesspeople and youth. President Lai emphasized that in the face of increasingly severe threats, the government will not stop doing its utmost to ensure that our national sovereignty is not infringed upon, and expressed hope that all citizens unite in solidarity to resist being divided. The president also expressed hope that citizens work together to increase media literacy, organize and participate in civic education activities, promptly expose concerted united front efforts, and refuse to participate in any activities that sacrifice national interests. As long as every citizen plays their part toward our nation’s goals for prosperity and security, he said, and as long as we work together, nothing can defeat us. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: At many venues recently, a number of citizens have expressed similar concerns to me. They have noticed cases in which members of the military, both active-duty and retired, have been bought out by China, sold intelligence, or even organized armed forces with plans to harm their own nation and its citizens. They have noticed cases in which entertainers willingly followed instructions from Beijing to claim that their country is not a country, all for the sake of personal career interests. They have noticed how messaging used by Chinese state media to stir up internal opposition in Taiwan is always quickly spread by specific channels. There have even been individuals making careers out of helping Chinese state media record united front content, spreading a message that democracy is useless and promoting skepticism toward the United States and the military to sow division and opposition. Many people worry that our country, as well as our hard-won freedom and democracy and the prosperity and progress we achieved together, are being washed away bit by bit due to these united front tactics. In an analysis of China’s united front, renowned strategic scholar Kerry K. Gershaneck expressed that China plans to divide and conquer us through subversion, infiltration, and acquisition of media, and by launching media warfare, psychological warfare, and legal warfare. What they are trying to do is to sow seeds of discord in our society, keep us occupied with internal conflicts, and cause us to ignore the real threat from outside. China’s ambition over the past several decades to annex Taiwan and stamp out the Republic of China has not changed for even a day. It continues to pursue political and military intimidation, and its united front infiltration of Taiwan’s society grows ever more serious. In 2005, China promulgated its so-called “Anti-Secession Law,” which makes using military force to annex Taiwan a national undertaking. Last June, China issued a 22-point set of “guidelines for punishing Taiwan independence separatists,” which regards all those who do not accept that “Taiwan is part of the People’s Republic of China” as targets for punishment, creating excuses to harm the people of Taiwan. China has also recently been distorting United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758, showing in all aspects China’s increasingly urgent threat against Taiwan’s sovereignty. Lately, China has been taking advantage of democratic Taiwan’s freedom, diversity, and openness to recruit gangs, the media, commentators, political parties, and even active-duty and retired members of the armed forces and police to carry out actions to divide, destroy, and subvert us from within. A report from the National Security Bureau indicates that 64 persons were charged last year with suspicion of spying for China, which was three times the number of persons charged for the same offense in 2021. Among them, the Unionist Party, Rehabilitation Alliance Party, and Republic of China Taiwan Military Government formed treasonous organizations to deploy armed forces for China. In a democratic and free society, such cases are appalling. But this is something that actually exists within Taiwan’s society today. China also actively plots ways to infiltrate and spy on our military. Last year, 28 active-duty and 15 retired members of the armed forces were charged with suspicion of involvement in spying for China, respectively comprising 43 percent and 23 percent of all of such cases – 66 percent in total. We are also alert to the fact that China has recently used widespread issuance of Chinese passports to entice Taiwanese citizens to apply for the Residence Permit for Taiwan Residents, permanent residency, or the Resident Identity Card, in an attempt to muddle Taiwanese people’s sense of national identity. China also views cross-strait exchanges as a channel for its united front against Taiwan, marking enemies in Taiwan internally, creating internal divisions, and weakening our sense of who the enemy really is. It intends to weaken public authority and create the illusion that China is “governing” Taiwan, thereby expanding its influence within Taiwan. We are also aware that China has continued to expand its strategy of integrated development with Taiwan. It employs various methods to demand and coerce Taiwanese businesses to increase their investments in China, entice Taiwanese youth to develop their careers in China, and unscrupulously seeks to poach Taiwan’s talent and steal key technologies. Such methods impact our economic security and greatly increase the risk of our young people heading to China. By its actions, China already satisfies the definition of a “foreign hostile force” as provided in the Anti-Infiltration Act. We have no choice but to take even more proactive measures, which is my purpose in convening this high-level national security meeting today. It is time we adopt proper preventive measures, enhance our democratic resilience and national security, and protect our cherished free and democratic way of life. Next, I will be giving a detailed account of the five major national security and united front threats Taiwan now faces and the 17 major strategies we have prepared in response. I. Responding to China’s threats to our national sovereignty We have a nation insofar as we have sovereignty, and we have the Republic of China insofar as we have Taiwan. Just as I said during my inaugural address last May, and in my National Day address last October: The moment when Taiwan’s first democratically elected president took the oath of office in 1996 sent a message to the international community, that Taiwan is a sovereign, independent, democratic nation. Among people here and in the international community, some call this land the Republic of China, some call it Taiwan, and some, the Republic of China Taiwan. The Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China are not subordinate to each other, and Taiwan resists any annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty. The future of the Republic of China Taiwan must be decided by its 23 million people. This is the status quo that we must maintain. The broadest consensus in Taiwanese society is that we must defend our sovereignty, uphold our free and democratic way of life, and resolutely oppose annexation of Taiwan by China. (1) I request that the National Security Council (NSC), the Ministry of National Defense (MND), and the administrative team do their utmost to promote the Four Pillars of Peace action plan to demonstrate the people’s broad consensus and firm resolve, consistent across the entirety of our nation, to oppose annexation of Taiwan by China. (2) I request that the NSC and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs draft an action plan that will, through collaboration with our friends and allies, convey to the world our national will and broad social consensus in opposing annexation of Taiwan by China and in countering China’s efforts to erase Taiwan from the international community and downgrade Taiwan’s sovereignty. II. Responding to China’s threats from infiltration and espionage activities targeting our military (1) Comprehensively review and amend our Law of Military Trial to restore the military trial system, allowing military judges to return to the frontline and collaborate with prosecutorial, investigative, and judicial authorities in the handling of criminal cases in which active-duty military personnel are suspected of involvement in such military crimes as sedition, aiding the enemy, leaking confidential information, dereliction of duty, or disobedience. In the future, criminal cases involving active-duty military personnel who are suspected of violating the Criminal Code of the Armed Forces will be tried by a military court. (2) Implement supporting reforms, including the establishment of a personnel management act for military judges and separate organization acts for military courts and military prosecutors’ offices. Once planning and discussion are completed, the MND will fully explain to and communicate with the public to ensure that the restoration of the military trial system gains the trust and full support of society. (3) To deter the various types of controversial rhetoric and behavior exhibited by active-duty as well as retired military personnel that severely damage the morale of our national military, the MND must discuss and propose an addition to the Criminal Code of the Armed Forces on penalties for expressions of loyalty to the enemy as well as revise the regulations for military personnel and their families receiving retirement benefits, so as to uphold military discipline. III. Responding to China’s threats aimed at obscuring the national identity of the people of Taiwan (1) I request that the Ministry of the Interior (MOI), Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), and other relevant agencies, wherever necessary, carry out inspections and management of the documents involving identification that Taiwanese citizens apply for in China, including: passports, ID cards, permanent residence certificates, and residence certificates, especially when the applicants are military personnel, civil servants, or public school educators, who have an obligation of loyalty to Taiwan. This will be done to strictly prevent and deter united front operations, which are performed by China under the guise of “integrated development,” that attempt to distort our people’s national identity. (2) With respect to naturalization and integration of individuals from China, Hong Kong, and Macau into Taiwanese society, more national security considerations must be taken into account while also attending to Taiwan’s social development and individual rights: Chinese nationals applying for permanent residency in Taiwan must, in accordance with the law of Taiwan, relinquish their existing household registration and passport and may not hold dual identity status. As for the systems in place to process individuals from Hong Kong or Macau applying for residency or permanent residency in Taiwan, there will be additional provisions for long-term residency to meet practical needs. IV. Responding to China’s threats from united front infiltration into Taiwanese society through cross-strait exchanges  (1) There are increasing risks involved with travel to China. (From January 1, 2024 to today, the MAC has received reports of 71 Taiwanese nationals who went missing, were detained, interrogated, or imprisoned in China; the number of unreported people who have been subjected to such treatment may be several times that. Of those, three elderly I-Kuan Tao members were detained in China in December of last year and have not yet been released.) In light of this, relevant agencies must raise public awareness of those risks, continue enhancing public communication, and implement various registration systems to reduce the potential for accidents and the risks associated with traveling to China. (2) Implement a disclosure system for exchanges with China involving public officials at all levels of the central and local government. This includes everyone from administrative officials to elected representatives, from legislators to village and neighborhood chiefs, all of whom should make the information related to such exchanges both public and transparent so that they can be accountable to the people. The MOI should also establish a disclosure system for exchanges with China involving public welfare organizations, such as religious groups, in order to prevent China’s interference and united front activities at their outset. (3) Manage the risks associated with individuals from China engaging in exchanges with Taiwan: Review and approval of Chinese individuals coming to Taiwan should be limited to normal cross-strait exchanges and official interactions under the principles of parity and dignity, and relevant factors such as changes in the cross-strait situation should be taken into consideration. Strict restrictions should be placed on Chinese individuals who have histories with the united front coming to Taiwan, and Chinese individuals should be prohibited from coming to Taiwan to conduct activities related in any way to the united front. (4) Political interference from China and the resulting risks to national security should be avoided in cross-strait exchanges. This includes the review and management of religious, cultural, academic, and education exchanges, which should in principle be depoliticized and de-risked so as to simplify people-to-people exchanges and promote healthy and orderly exchanges. (5) To deter the united front tactics of a cultural nature employed by Chinese nationals to undermine Taiwan’s sovereignty, the Executive Yuan must formulate a solution to make our local cultural industries more competitive, including enhanced support and incentives for our film, television, and cultural and creative industries to boost their strengths in democratic cultural creation, raise international competitiveness, and encourage research in Taiwan’s own history and culture. (6) Strengthen guidance and management for entertainers developing their careers in China. The competent authorities should provide entertainers with guidelines on conduct while working in China, and make clear the scope of investigation and response to conduct that endangers national dignity. This will help prevent China from pressuring Taiwanese entertainers to make statements or act in ways that endanger national dignity. (7) The relevant authorities must adopt proactive, effective measures to prevent China from engaging in cognitive warfare against Taiwan or endangering cybersecurity through the internet, applications, AI, and other such tools. (8) To implement these measures, each competent authority must run a comprehensive review of the relevant administrative ordinances, measures, and interpretations, and complete the relevant regulations for legal enforcement. Should there be any shortcomings, the legal framework for national security should be strengthened and amendments to the National Security Act, Anti-Infiltration Act, Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area, Laws and Regulations Regarding Hong Kong & Macao Affairs, or Cyber Security Management Act should be proposed. Communication with the public should also be increased so that implementation can happen as soon as possible. V. Responding to threats from China using “integrated development” to attract Taiwanese businesspeople and youth (1) I request that the NSC and administrative agencies work together to carry out strategic structural adjustments to the economic and trade relations between Taiwan and China based on the strategies of putting Taiwan first and expanding our global presence while staying rooted in Taiwan. In addition, they should carry out necessary, orderly adjustments to the flow of talent, goods, money, and skills involved in cross-strait economic and trade relations based on the principle of strengthening Taiwan’s foundations to better manage risk. This will help boost economic security and give us more power to respond to China’s economic and trade united front and economic coercion against Taiwan. (2) I request that the Ministry of Education, MAC, Ministry of Economic Affairs, and other relevant agencies work together to comprehensively strengthen young students’ literacy education on China and deepen their understanding of cross-strait exchanges. I also request these agencies to widely publicize mechanisms for employment and entrepreneurship for Taiwan’s youth and provide ample information and assistance so that young students have more confidence in the nation’s future and more actively invest in building up and developing Taiwan. My fellow citizens, this year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. History tells us that any authoritarian act of aggression or annexation will ultimately end in failure. The only way we can safeguard freedom and prevail against authoritarian aggression is through solidarity. As we face increasingly severe threats, the government will not stop doing its utmost to ensure that our national sovereignty is not infringed upon, and to ensure that the freedom, democracy, and way of life of Taiwan’s 23 million people continues on as normal. But relying solely on the power of the government is not enough. What we need even more is for all citizens to stay vigilant and take action. Every citizen stands on the frontline of the defense of democracy and freedom. Here is what we can do together: First, we can increase our media literacy, and refrain from spreading and passing on united front messaging from the Chinese state. Second, we can organize and participate in civic education activities to increase our knowledge about united front operations and build up whole-of-society defense resilience. Third, we can promptly expose concerted united front efforts so that all malicious attempts are difficult to carry out. Fourth, we must refuse to participate in any activities that sacrifice national interests. The vigilance and action of every citizen forms the strongest line of defense against united front infiltration. Only through solidarity can we resist being divided. As long as every citizen plays their part toward our nation’s goals for prosperity and security, and as long as we work together, nothing can defeat us.
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2025-03-04
President Lai meets US Heritage Foundation founder Dr. Edwin Feulner
On the afternoon of March 4, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by founder of the US-based Heritage Foundation Dr. Edwin Feulner. In remarks President Lai thanked the foundation for publishing the 2025 Index of Economic Freedom, in which Taiwan ranked fourth globally and which recognized Taiwan’s sound legal foundation and ideal investment environment. The president said that Taiwan and the United States are important economic and trade partners and engage closely in industrial exchange. The president also expressed hope to expand investment in and procurement from the US in such areas as high-tech, energy, and agricultural products, and to work with the US and other democratic partners to create more resilient and diverse semiconductor supply chains to address new circumstances. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a pleasure to welcome Dr. Feulner back to Taiwan today. I recall meeting with Dr. Feulner and Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts here at the Presidential Office at the end of last February. We had a fruitful discussion on Taiwan-US relations and regional affairs. When President Donald Trump was elected for his first term, Dr. Feulner played a crucial role in the administration’s transition team. Today, I look forward to hearing his thoughts on possible ways to further deepen relations between Taiwan and the US. I would like to thank the Heritage Foundation for publishing the 2025 Index of Economic Freedom, in which Taiwan ranked fourth globally. The report also recognized Taiwan’s sound legal foundation and ideal investment environment. Taiwan and the US are important economic and trade partners and engage closely in industrial exchange. The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s (TSMC) historic US$65 billion investment in Arizona–negotiated and finalized during President Trump’s first term–is a case in point. And today, TSMC Chairman C.C. Wei (魏哲家) and President Trump jointly announced that the company would be expanding its investment in the US with new facilities. Looking ahead, we hope to expand investment in and procurement from the US in such areas as high-tech, energy, and agricultural products. We also look forward to working with the US and other democratic partners to create more resilient and diverse semiconductor supply chains to address new circumstances. At present, we continue to face authoritarian expansionism. As a country that deeply loves and staunchly defends freedom, Taiwan will collaborate with the US and other like-minded countries to maintain regional peace and stability. I would like to thank President Trump for his recent joint statement with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, which emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. And last month, the US was also part of a G7 foreign ministers’ statement in which “they strongly opposed any attempts to change unilaterally the status quo using force.” We firmly believe that only peace attained through one’s own strength can truly be called peace. Currently, Taiwan’s defense budget stands at approximately 2.5 percent of GDP. Going forward, the government will prioritize special budget allocations to ensure that Taiwan’s defense budget exceeds 3 percent of GDP. Also, we will continue to reform national defense in the conviction that help comes most to those who help themselves. This will allow us to contribute even more to regional peace and stability. In closing, I once again thank Dr. Feulner for visiting and for demonstrating support of Taiwan. I wish you all a smooth and successful trip. Dr. Feulner then delivered remarks, first stating that on behalf of his successor, President Roberts, and all of his colleagues at the Heritage Foundation, it is his pleasure to present President Lai with the first copy of the 2025 Index of Economic Freedom. Pointing out that in the Index the Republic of China (Taiwan) is number four of 176 countries around the world in terms of its economic freedom, Dr. Feulner extended his congratulations to President Lai.  Dr. Feulner said he looks forward to a discussion about the present situation and how we can improve relations between the US and Taiwan. Dr. Feulner expressed his gratitude on hearing the wonderful announcement from TSMC, which was released right before his visit, that it will be expanding its investment in the US. In past trips, he said, he has had the opportunity to visit the TSMC headquarters in Taiwan, and fairly recently he has had the opportunity to view the site in Arizona where the construction continues and where the initial operations are beginning. He stated that they are proud to have TSMC now as an integral part of our responsible bilateral relationship. Dr. Feulner noted that while TSMC is of course very big, he also wants to express appreciation for all of the hundreds and hundreds of Taiwan-based companies that are strong, close partners throughout the US with American companies and with American people in terms of making a close and unified alliance of two freedom-loving countries.
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2025-03-04
President Lai attends opening ceremony of GCTF Workshop on Whole-of-Society Resilience Building, Preparation, and Response
On the morning of March 4, President Lai Ching-te attended the opening ceremony of the Global Cooperation and Training Framework (GCTF) Workshop on Whole-of-Society Resilience Building, Preparation, and Response. In remarks, President Lai stated that global challenges such as extreme weather, pandemics, and energy crises continue to emerge, and growing authoritarianism presents a grave threat to freedom-loving countries. These challenges have no borders, he said, and absolutely no single country can face them alone. The president said that as a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan is both willing and able to contribute even more to the democracy, peace, and prosperity of the world, and that the GCTF is an important platform where Taiwan can make those contributions by sharing its experiences with the rest of the world. President Lai indicated that Taiwan will join the forces of the central and local governments to enhance social resilience across the board, enhance disaster response capabilities in the community, and leverage its strengths to make contributions to the international community. He said that we are demonstrating to the world our determination to create an even more resilient Taiwan, and expressed hope to advance mutual assistance and exchanges with all the countries involved, so that we can together promote stability and prosperity around the world. A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows: To begin, I would like to welcome more than 60 distinguished guests from 30 countries, as well as experts from Taiwan. You are all here for this GCTF workshop to discuss whole-of-society resilience building, preparation, and response. As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan is both willing and able to contribute even more to the democracy, peace, and prosperity of the world. The GCTF is an important platform where Taiwan can make those contributions by sharing its experiences with the rest of the world. I want to thank our full GCTF partners, the United States, Japan, Australia, and Canada. Over the past several years, we have worked with even more countries through this framework and have expanded our exchanges into even more fields. Together, we have met all kinds of new challenges. I am confident that as our cooperation grows stronger, so will our ability to promote global progress. Each of today’s guests is contributing a vital force in that regard. I extend my sincere thanks to you all. Global challenges such as extreme weather, pandemics, and energy crises continue to emerge. And growing authoritarianism presents a grave threat to freedom-loving countries. These challenges have no borders, and absolutely no single country can face them alone. Taiwan holds a key position on the first island chain, and stands at the very frontline of the defense of democracy. With this joint workshop, we are demonstrating to the world our determination to create an even more resilient Taiwan. We are also aiming to advance our mutual assistance and exchanges with all the countries involved, so that we can make our societies more resilient and together promote stability and prosperity around the world. Moving forward, we will continue advancing the following three initiatives: First, we will join the forces of the central and local governments to enhance social resilience across the board. Just last year, I established the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee at the Presidential Office. Civilian force training, strategic material preparation, and critical infrastructure operation and maintenance are all key discussion areas for our committee. These aim to enhance Taiwan’s resilience in national defense, economic livelihoods, disaster prevention, and democracy. They are also items on the agenda for this GCTF workshop. To cover all the bases, Taiwan must unite and cooperate as a team. Last year, our committee held the very first cross-sector tabletop exercise at the Presidential Office which included central and local government officials as well as civilian observers. We aim to test the government’s emergency response capabilities in high-intensity gray-zone operations and near-conflict situations. We will continue to hold exercises to help the central and local governments work together more efficiently, and strengthen Taiwan’s overall disaster response capabilities. Second is to enhance disaster response capabilities in the community. We fully understand that to build whole-of-society resilience, we must help people increase risk awareness, know how to respond to disasters, and develop abilities to help themselves, help one another, and work together. We are grateful to the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) for collaborating with the Taiwan Development Association for Disaster Medical Teams to host “Take Action” workshops around the country since 2021. A 2.0 version is already in practice, and continues to train the public in first aid skills. Director of the AIT Taipei Office Raymond Greene and I took part in a Take Action event in New Taipei City last year and personally saw the positive outcomes of the training. In addition to the Take Action workshops, the government is also providing Disaster Relief Volunteer training for ages 11 to 89, and is continuing to expand its target audience. We have also set up Taiwan Community Emergency Response Teams at key facilities nationwide, enhancing the ability of these important facilities to respond independently to disasters. Civilian training will continue to be refined and expanded so that members of the public can serve as important partners in government-led disaster prevention and relief. Third, we will leverage Taiwan’s strengths to make contributions to the international community. The inspiration for our Disaster Relief Volunteer training comes from a similar program run by The Nippon Care-Fit Education Institute in Japan. I am confident that through exchanges like this workshop, Taiwan and other countries can also inspire one another in many areas, and enhance whole-of-society resilience in multiple ways. Taiwan also excels in information and communications and advanced technology. We will set up even more robust cybersecurity systems, expand usage of emerging technologies, and improve the ways we maintain domestic security. We hope that by leveraging our capabilities and sharing our experiences, Taiwan can contribute even more to the international community. I want to welcome all our partners once again, and thank AIT for co-hosting this event. Let’s continue down the path of advancing global security and developing resilience together. Because together, we can travel farther, and we can travel longer. Also in attendance at the event were Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Deputy Representative Takaba Yo, Australian Office in Taipei Representative Robert Fergusson, and Canadian Trade Office in Taipei Executive Director Jim Nickel.
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2025-02-24
President Lai meets Japanese House of Representatives Member Tamaki Yuichiro
On the afternoon of February 24, President Lai Ching-te met with Japanese House of Representatives Member Tamaki Yuichiro. In remarks, President Lai noted that Taiwan and Japan are important trading partners. The president expressed hope that, in addition to semiconductors, Taiwan and Japan can also bolster cooperation in the fields of hydrogen energy and drones and build non-red supply chains, thus creating economic win-win situations and maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and globally. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I would like to start by warmly welcoming Representative Tamaki on his first trip to Taiwan. Now is a key moment for the cooperative ties between Taiwan and Japan, and the fact that Representative Tamaki has chosen to take time out of his busy schedule to make this trip demonstrates his especially meaningful support for Taiwan. For this I want to express my deepest gratitude. At the beginning of this month, Japan and the United States held a summit meeting. In the post-summit joint leaders’ statement the government of Japan reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, opposed any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion, and expressed support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations. I would like to thank the government of Japan for these statements. Taiwan and Japan are both responsible members of the international community. I welcome an even firmer friendship between Japan and the US and hope to see cooperation among Taiwan, Japan, and the US become a solid force in consolidating peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. In addition to complex international conditions, we now also face the threat of China’s red supply chain. More and more countries are becoming increasingly concerned about such issues as economic security and supply chain resilience. As authoritarianism consolidates, democratic nations must also come closer in solidarity. Taiwan and Japan are important trading partners. I hope that, in addition to semiconductors, Taiwan and Japan can also bolster cooperation in the fields of hydrogen energy and drones, and that we can build non-red supply chains, thus creating economic win-win situations and maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and globally. Lastly, I would like once again to welcome Representative Tamaki to Taiwan and wish him a successful visit. I hope he departs Taiwan with a deep impression and that he will visit again. Representative Tamaki then delivered remarks, noting that this was his first visit to Taiwan and thanking President Lai and officials of the Taiwan government for their warm welcome. Pointing out that Taiwan-Japan ties are closer than ever thanks to the major efforts made on this front by President Lai since taking office, Representative Tamaki expressed his admiration and gratitude. Representative Tamaki pointed out that in a changing global landscape, Taiwan, Japan, and the Indo-Pacific region all face major changes, but he firmly believes that Taiwan-Japan relations will develop even further. Recalling President Lai’s previous remarks, the representative said that Japan and the US recently held a summit meeting that yielded important results. In the joint leaders’ statement, he noted, the two sides made a clear commitment regarding peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and firmly opposed any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion. Representative Tamaki said that the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and the Komeito did not win a majority in last year’s House of Representatives general elections, while the number of seats held by his own Democratic Party for the People quadrupled. This result, he said, has filled him with a feeling of great responsibility. Moving forward, he intends to continue promoting Taiwan-Japan cooperation and strengthening relations. Also in attendance at the meeting was Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki.
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2025-02-21
President Lai meets Abe Akie, wife of late Prime Minister Abe Shinzo of Japan
On the morning of February 21, President Lai Ching-te met with Abe Akie, the wife of late Prime Minister Abe Shinzo of Japan. In remarks, President Lai thanked Mrs. Abe for carrying on the legacy of former Prime Minister Abe, being a benevolent and determined force for regional peace and prosperity, and calling on all parties to continue to place attention on peace in the Taiwan Strait. The president stated that Taiwan will carry on the legacy and spirit of former President Lee Teng-hui and former Prime Minister Abe, safeguard the values of freedom and democracy, and deepen the Taiwan-Japan friendship. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Last May, Mrs. Abe came to Taiwan to attend the inauguration ceremony for myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, and we reminisced about the past here at the Presidential Office. I would like to warmly welcome her back today. I am also delighted to be meeting with all guests in attendance. Yesterday, Mrs. Abe and I attended the opening of the very first Halifax Taipei forum, for which Mrs. Abe also delivered a keynote speech earlier today. In her speech, she offered valuable input on global security and democratic development. I would like to thank Mrs. Abe for making this special trip to Taiwan to take part, showing her strong support for Taiwan. Former Prime Minister Abe pioneered the vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific, and called on the international community to pay attention to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and Indo-Pacific. These have become common strategic goals of democratic countries around the world and will have a far-reaching influence over international developments and Taiwan’s security. They were important contributions that former Prime Minister Abe made in regard to the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region. Recently, current Prime Minister of Japan Ishiba Shigeru and United States President Donald Trump held a meeting and jointly reiterated the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, as well as opposed unilateral changes to the status quo by force or coercion. They also expressed support for Taiwan’s participation in international organizations. This shows that Prime Minister Ishiba is furthering the legacy of former Prime Minister Abe. We are very grateful for the former prime minister’s friendship toward Taiwan, and to Mrs. Abe for carrying on his legacy. Mrs. Abe is a benevolent and determined force for regional peace and prosperity, and has called on all parties at numerous public venues to continue to place attention on peace in the Taiwan Strait. Last December, for instance, she traveled at the invitation of President Trump and his wife to the US, where she addressed cross-strait issues and spoke up for Taiwan. We were deeply moved by this. As authoritarian states continue to expand, Taiwan will keep working alongside like-minded nations such as Japan and the US, as well as the European Union, to jointly contribute to regional and global peace and prosperity. I look forward to continued advancement of regional peace and prosperity with the help of Mrs. Abe’s efforts. Mrs. Abe will also be meeting with daughter of former President Lee and Lee Teng-hui Foundation Chairperson Annie Lee (李安妮) tomorrow. Former President Lee and former Prime Minister Abe were both fully devoted to promoting Taiwan-Japan relations. We will carry on their legacy and spirit, safeguard the values of freedom and democracy, and deepen the Taiwan-Japan friendship. In closing, I wish you all a smooth and successful visit. Mrs. Abe then delivered remarks, first expressing her sincere thanks to President Lai for taking the time to meet. She said that former Prime Minister Abe hailed from Yamaguchi Prefecture, and that accompanying her that day were House of Councillors Member Kitamura Tsuneo, Yamaguchi Prefecture Governor Muraoka Tsugumasa, Yamaguchi Prefectural Assembly Deputy Speaker Shimata Noriaki, and many other important figures from Yamaguchi. If former Prime Minister Abe’s spirit could look upon this scene, she said, he would certainly be very pleased. Mrs. Abe recalled that when the former prime minister passed away, then-Vice President Lai traveled to their official residence to express his condolences and pay tribute. She said that she will never forget such a gesture of deep friendship, heartfelt condolences, and care. The year before last, she indicated, a memorial photo exhibition for former Prime Minister Abe was held in Taiwan, and many Taiwanese people from all walks of life came to view it. Last year, Mrs. Abe continued, she had the privilege of attending President Lai’s inauguration ceremony, where she met with many friends from Taiwan and personally felt the close and beautiful ties that Taiwan and Japan share. Mrs. Abe stated that she will carry out the wishes of former Prime Minister Abe and do her utmost to help raise Taiwan-Japan relations to new heights, saying that she looks forward to hearing the advice that President Lai and all those present have to offer. The delegation also included Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki.
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2025-03-13
President Lai holds press conference following high-level national security meeting
On the afternoon of March 13, President Lai Ching-te convened a high-level national security meeting, following which he held a press conference. In remarks, President Lai introduced 17 major strategies to respond to five major national security and united front threats Taiwan now faces: China’s threat to national sovereignty, its threats from infiltration and espionage activities targeting Taiwan’s military, its threats aimed at obscuring the national identity of the people of Taiwan, its threats from united front infiltration into Taiwanese society through cross-strait exchanges, and its threats from using “integrated development” to attract Taiwanese businesspeople and youth. President Lai emphasized that in the face of increasingly severe threats, the government will not stop doing its utmost to ensure that our national sovereignty is not infringed upon, and expressed hope that all citizens unite in solidarity to resist being divided. The president also expressed hope that citizens work together to increase media literacy, organize and participate in civic education activities, promptly expose concerted united front efforts, and refuse to participate in any activities that sacrifice national interests. As long as every citizen plays their part toward our nation’s goals for prosperity and security, he said, and as long as we work together, nothing can defeat us. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: At many venues recently, a number of citizens have expressed similar concerns to me. They have noticed cases in which members of the military, both active-duty and retired, have been bought out by China, sold intelligence, or even organized armed forces with plans to harm their own nation and its citizens. They have noticed cases in which entertainers willingly followed instructions from Beijing to claim that their country is not a country, all for the sake of personal career interests. They have noticed how messaging used by Chinese state media to stir up internal opposition in Taiwan is always quickly spread by specific channels. There have even been individuals making careers out of helping Chinese state media record united front content, spreading a message that democracy is useless and promoting skepticism toward the United States and the military to sow division and opposition. Many people worry that our country, as well as our hard-won freedom and democracy and the prosperity and progress we achieved together, are being washed away bit by bit due to these united front tactics. In an analysis of China’s united front, renowned strategic scholar Kerry K. Gershaneck expressed that China plans to divide and conquer us through subversion, infiltration, and acquisition of media, and by launching media warfare, psychological warfare, and legal warfare. What they are trying to do is to sow seeds of discord in our society, keep us occupied with internal conflicts, and cause us to ignore the real threat from outside. China’s ambition over the past several decades to annex Taiwan and stamp out the Republic of China has not changed for even a day. It continues to pursue political and military intimidation, and its united front infiltration of Taiwan’s society grows ever more serious. In 2005, China promulgated its so-called “Anti-Secession Law,” which makes using military force to annex Taiwan a national undertaking. Last June, China issued a 22-point set of “guidelines for punishing Taiwan independence separatists,” which regards all those who do not accept that “Taiwan is part of the People’s Republic of China” as targets for punishment, creating excuses to harm the people of Taiwan. China has also recently been distorting United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758, showing in all aspects China’s increasingly urgent threat against Taiwan’s sovereignty. Lately, China has been taking advantage of democratic Taiwan’s freedom, diversity, and openness to recruit gangs, the media, commentators, political parties, and even active-duty and retired members of the armed forces and police to carry out actions to divide, destroy, and subvert us from within. A report from the National Security Bureau indicates that 64 persons were charged last year with suspicion of spying for China, which was three times the number of persons charged for the same offense in 2021. Among them, the Unionist Party, Rehabilitation Alliance Party, and Republic of China Taiwan Military Government formed treasonous organizations to deploy armed forces for China. In a democratic and free society, such cases are appalling. But this is something that actually exists within Taiwan’s society today. China also actively plots ways to infiltrate and spy on our military. Last year, 28 active-duty and 15 retired members of the armed forces were charged with suspicion of involvement in spying for China, respectively comprising 43 percent and 23 percent of all of such cases – 66 percent in total. We are also alert to the fact that China has recently used widespread issuance of Chinese passports to entice Taiwanese citizens to apply for the Residence Permit for Taiwan Residents, permanent residency, or the Resident Identity Card, in an attempt to muddle Taiwanese people’s sense of national identity. China also views cross-strait exchanges as a channel for its united front against Taiwan, marking enemies in Taiwan internally, creating internal divisions, and weakening our sense of who the enemy really is. It intends to weaken public authority and create the illusion that China is “governing” Taiwan, thereby expanding its influence within Taiwan. We are also aware that China has continued to expand its strategy of integrated development with Taiwan. It employs various methods to demand and coerce Taiwanese businesses to increase their investments in China, entice Taiwanese youth to develop their careers in China, and unscrupulously seeks to poach Taiwan’s talent and steal key technologies. Such methods impact our economic security and greatly increase the risk of our young people heading to China. By its actions, China already satisfies the definition of a “foreign hostile force” as provided in the Anti-Infiltration Act. We have no choice but to take even more proactive measures, which is my purpose in convening this high-level national security meeting today. It is time we adopt proper preventive measures, enhance our democratic resilience and national security, and protect our cherished free and democratic way of life. Next, I will be giving a detailed account of the five major national security and united front threats Taiwan now faces and the 17 major strategies we have prepared in response. I. Responding to China’s threats to our national sovereignty We have a nation insofar as we have sovereignty, and we have the Republic of China insofar as we have Taiwan. Just as I said during my inaugural address last May, and in my National Day address last October: The moment when Taiwan’s first democratically elected president took the oath of office in 1996 sent a message to the international community, that Taiwan is a sovereign, independent, democratic nation. Among people here and in the international community, some call this land the Republic of China, some call it Taiwan, and some, the Republic of China Taiwan. The Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China are not subordinate to each other, and Taiwan resists any annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty. The future of the Republic of China Taiwan must be decided by its 23 million people. This is the status quo that we must maintain. The broadest consensus in Taiwanese society is that we must defend our sovereignty, uphold our free and democratic way of life, and resolutely oppose annexation of Taiwan by China. (1) I request that the National Security Council (NSC), the Ministry of National Defense (MND), and the administrative team do their utmost to promote the Four Pillars of Peace action plan to demonstrate the people’s broad consensus and firm resolve, consistent across the entirety of our nation, to oppose annexation of Taiwan by China. (2) I request that the NSC and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs draft an action plan that will, through collaboration with our friends and allies, convey to the world our national will and broad social consensus in opposing annexation of Taiwan by China and in countering China’s efforts to erase Taiwan from the international community and downgrade Taiwan’s sovereignty. II. Responding to China’s threats from infiltration and espionage activities targeting our military (1) Comprehensively review and amend our Law of Military Trial to restore the military trial system, allowing military judges to return to the frontline and collaborate with prosecutorial, investigative, and judicial authorities in the handling of criminal cases in which active-duty military personnel are suspected of involvement in such military crimes as sedition, aiding the enemy, leaking confidential information, dereliction of duty, or disobedience. In the future, criminal cases involving active-duty military personnel who are suspected of violating the Criminal Code of the Armed Forces will be tried by a military court. (2) Implement supporting reforms, including the establishment of a personnel management act for military judges and separate organization acts for military courts and military prosecutors’ offices. Once planning and discussion are completed, the MND will fully explain to and communicate with the public to ensure that the restoration of the military trial system gains the trust and full support of society. (3) To deter the various types of controversial rhetoric and behavior exhibited by active-duty as well as retired military personnel that severely damage the morale of our national military, the MND must discuss and propose an addition to the Criminal Code of the Armed Forces on penalties for expressions of loyalty to the enemy as well as revise the regulations for military personnel and their families receiving retirement benefits, so as to uphold military discipline. III. Responding to China’s threats aimed at obscuring the national identity of the people of Taiwan (1) I request that the Ministry of the Interior (MOI), Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), and other relevant agencies, wherever necessary, carry out inspections and management of the documents involving identification that Taiwanese citizens apply for in China, including: passports, ID cards, permanent residence certificates, and residence certificates, especially when the applicants are military personnel, civil servants, or public school educators, who have an obligation of loyalty to Taiwan. This will be done to strictly prevent and deter united front operations, which are performed by China under the guise of “integrated development,” that attempt to distort our people’s national identity. (2) With respect to naturalization and integration of individuals from China, Hong Kong, and Macau into Taiwanese society, more national security considerations must be taken into account while also attending to Taiwan’s social development and individual rights: Chinese nationals applying for permanent residency in Taiwan must, in accordance with the law of Taiwan, relinquish their existing household registration and passport and may not hold dual identity status. As for the systems in place to process individuals from Hong Kong or Macau applying for residency or permanent residency in Taiwan, there will be additional provisions for long-term residency to meet practical needs. IV. Responding to China’s threats from united front infiltration into Taiwanese society through cross-strait exchanges  (1) There are increasing risks involved with travel to China. (From January 1, 2024 to today, the MAC has received reports of 71 Taiwanese nationals who went missing, were detained, interrogated, or imprisoned in China; the number of unreported people who have been subjected to such treatment may be several times that. Of those, three elderly I-Kuan Tao members were detained in China in December of last year and have not yet been released.) In light of this, relevant agencies must raise public awareness of those risks, continue enhancing public communication, and implement various registration systems to reduce the potential for accidents and the risks associated with traveling to China. (2) Implement a disclosure system for exchanges with China involving public officials at all levels of the central and local government. This includes everyone from administrative officials to elected representatives, from legislators to village and neighborhood chiefs, all of whom should make the information related to such exchanges both public and transparent so that they can be accountable to the people. The MOI should also establish a disclosure system for exchanges with China involving public welfare organizations, such as religious groups, in order to prevent China’s interference and united front activities at their outset. (3) Manage the risks associated with individuals from China engaging in exchanges with Taiwan: Review and approval of Chinese individuals coming to Taiwan should be limited to normal cross-strait exchanges and official interactions under the principles of parity and dignity, and relevant factors such as changes in the cross-strait situation should be taken into consideration. Strict restrictions should be placed on Chinese individuals who have histories with the united front coming to Taiwan, and Chinese individuals should be prohibited from coming to Taiwan to conduct activities related in any way to the united front. (4) Political interference from China and the resulting risks to national security should be avoided in cross-strait exchanges. This includes the review and management of religious, cultural, academic, and education exchanges, which should in principle be depoliticized and de-risked so as to simplify people-to-people exchanges and promote healthy and orderly exchanges. (5) To deter the united front tactics of a cultural nature employed by Chinese nationals to undermine Taiwan’s sovereignty, the Executive Yuan must formulate a solution to make our local cultural industries more competitive, including enhanced support and incentives for our film, television, and cultural and creative industries to boost their strengths in democratic cultural creation, raise international competitiveness, and encourage research in Taiwan’s own history and culture. (6) Strengthen guidance and management for entertainers developing their careers in China. The competent authorities should provide entertainers with guidelines on conduct while working in China, and make clear the scope of investigation and response to conduct that endangers national dignity. This will help prevent China from pressuring Taiwanese entertainers to make statements or act in ways that endanger national dignity. (7) The relevant authorities must adopt proactive, effective measures to prevent China from engaging in cognitive warfare against Taiwan or endangering cybersecurity through the internet, applications, AI, and other such tools. (8) To implement these measures, each competent authority must run a comprehensive review of the relevant administrative ordinances, measures, and interpretations, and complete the relevant regulations for legal enforcement. Should there be any shortcomings, the legal framework for national security should be strengthened and amendments to the National Security Act, Anti-Infiltration Act, Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area, Laws and Regulations Regarding Hong Kong & Macao Affairs, or Cyber Security Management Act should be proposed. Communication with the public should also be increased so that implementation can happen as soon as possible. V. Responding to threats from China using “integrated development” to attract Taiwanese businesspeople and youth (1) I request that the NSC and administrative agencies work together to carry out strategic structural adjustments to the economic and trade relations between Taiwan and China based on the strategies of putting Taiwan first and expanding our global presence while staying rooted in Taiwan. In addition, they should carry out necessary, orderly adjustments to the flow of talent, goods, money, and skills involved in cross-strait economic and trade relations based on the principle of strengthening Taiwan’s foundations to better manage risk. This will help boost economic security and give us more power to respond to China’s economic and trade united front and economic coercion against Taiwan. (2) I request that the Ministry of Education, MAC, Ministry of Economic Affairs, and other relevant agencies work together to comprehensively strengthen young students’ literacy education on China and deepen their understanding of cross-strait exchanges. I also request these agencies to widely publicize mechanisms for employment and entrepreneurship for Taiwan’s youth and provide ample information and assistance so that young students have more confidence in the nation’s future and more actively invest in building up and developing Taiwan. My fellow citizens, this year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. History tells us that any authoritarian act of aggression or annexation will ultimately end in failure. The only way we can safeguard freedom and prevail against authoritarian aggression is through solidarity. As we face increasingly severe threats, the government will not stop doing its utmost to ensure that our national sovereignty is not infringed upon, and to ensure that the freedom, democracy, and way of life of Taiwan’s 23 million people continues on as normal. But relying solely on the power of the government is not enough. What we need even more is for all citizens to stay vigilant and take action. Every citizen stands on the frontline of the defense of democracy and freedom. Here is what we can do together: First, we can increase our media literacy, and refrain from spreading and passing on united front messaging from the Chinese state. Second, we can organize and participate in civic education activities to increase our knowledge about united front operations and build up whole-of-society defense resilience. Third, we can promptly expose concerted united front efforts so that all malicious attempts are difficult to carry out. Fourth, we must refuse to participate in any activities that sacrifice national interests. The vigilance and action of every citizen forms the strongest line of defense against united front infiltration. Only through solidarity can we resist being divided. As long as every citizen plays their part toward our nation’s goals for prosperity and security, and as long as we work together, nothing can defeat us.
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