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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.

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Deputy Speaker McGuinness then delivered remarks, stating that he has been to Taiwan on many occasions and that it is a great honor to join President Lai and his staff at the Presidential Office. He said that Ireland has continued to build its strong relationship with Taiwan based on our democratic values and the interests that we have in trade throughout the world, strengthening this relationship based on culture, education, and more. Noting that he served with many other diplomats from Taiwan, he said all had the same goal, which was to further the interests of the Ireland-Taiwan friendship and to ensure that it grows and prospers. The deputy speaker then extended to President Lai the delegation’s best wishes for his term in office, stating that they commit to the same values as the previous friendship groups that have been visiting Taiwan. He went on to say that some members of the group are newly elected, representing the next generation of the association, and that they are committed to working together with Taiwan to stand strong in the defense of democracy. Deputy Speaker McGuinness also noted that the father of Deputy Ken O’Flynn, one of the delegation members, played an important role as a former chairman of the association, remarking that it is good to see such continuity taking place. Deputy Speaker McGuiness said that he believes the world is facing huge challenges and uncertainty in terms of our markets and trade with one another. He said we have to watch for what the United States will do next and be conscious of what China is doing, emphasizing that the European Union stands strong in the center of this, while Ireland plays a huge role in the context of democracy, trade, and the betterment of all things for the citizens that they represent. The deputy speaker then stated that while we focus on the development of AI that is extremely important for all of us, we can work together to ensure that we control AI rather than AI controlling us. He also remarked that we cannot lose sight of our traditional trading means, saying that we have to keep all of our trade together, expand on that trade, and then take on the new technologies that come before us. Deputy Speaker McGuinness concluded his remarks by thanking President Lai for receiving the delegation, stating that they commit to their continuation of support for Taiwan and for democracy. Also in attendance were Deputies Malcolm Byrne and Barry Ward, and Senator Teresa Costello.
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2025-07-22
President Lai meets official delegation from European Parliament’s Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield
On the morning of July 22, President Lai Ching-te met with an official delegation from the European Parliament’s Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield (EUDS). In remarks, President Lai thanked the committee for choosing to visit Taiwan for its first trip to Asia, demonstrating the close ties between Taiwan and Europe. President Lai emphasized that Taiwan, standing at the very frontline of the democratic world, is determined to protect democracy, peace, and prosperity worldwide. He expressed hope that we can share our experiences with Europe to foster even more resilient societies. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Firstly, on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend a warm welcome to your delegation, which marks another official visit from the European Parliament. The Special Committee on the EUDS aims to strengthen societal resilience and counter disinformation and hybrid threats. Having been constituted at the beginning of this year, the committee has chosen to visit Taiwan for its first trip to Asia, demonstrating the close ties between Taiwan and Europe and the unlimited possibilities for deepening cooperation on issues of concern. I am also delighted to see many old friends of Taiwan gathered here today. I deeply appreciate your longstanding support for Taiwan. Taiwan and the European Union enjoy close trade and economic relations and share the values of freedom and democracy. However, in recent years, we have both been subjected to information manipulation and infiltration by foreign forces that seek to interfere in democratic elections, foment division in our societies, and shake people’s faith in democracy. Taiwan not only faces an onslaught of disinformation, but also is the target of gray-zone aggression. That is why, after taking office, I established the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee at the Presidential Office, with myself as convener. The committee is a platform that integrates domestic affairs, national defense, foreign affairs, cybersecurity, and civil resources. It aims to strengthen the capability of Taiwan’s society to defend itself against new forms of threat, pinpoint external and internal vulnerabilities, and bolster overall resilience and security. The efforts that democracies make are not for opposing anyone else; they are for safeguarding the way of life that we cherish – just as Europe has endeavored to promote diversity and human rights. The Taiwanese people firmly believe that when our society is united and people trust one another, we will be able to withstand any form of authoritarian aggression. Taiwan stands at the very frontline of the democratic world. We are determined to protect democracy, peace, and prosperity worldwide. We also hope to share our experiences with Europe and deepen cooperation in such fields as cybersecurity, media literacy, and societal resilience. Thank you once again for visiting Taiwan. Your presence further strengthens the foundations of Taiwan-Europe relations. Let us continue to work together to uphold freedom and democracy and foster even more resilient societies. EUDS Special Committee Chair Nathalie Loiseau then delivered remarks, saying that the delegation has members from different countries, including France, Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Belgium, and different political parties, but that they have in common their desire for stronger relations between the EU and Taiwan. Committee Chair Loiseau stated that the EU and Taiwan, having many things in common, should work more together. She noted that we have strong trade relations, strong investments on both sides, and strong cultural relations, while we are also facing very similar challenges and threats. She said that we are democracies living in a world where autocracies want to weaken and divide democracies. She added that we also face external information manipulation, cyberattacks, sabotage, attempts to capture elites, and every single gray-zone activity that aims to divide and weaken us. Committee Chair Loiseau pointed out another commonality, that we have never threatened our neighbors. She said that we want to live in peace and we care about our people; we want to defend ourselves, not to attack others. We are not being threatened because of what we do, she emphasized, but because of what we are; and thus there is no reason for not working more together to face these threats and attacks. Committee Chair Loiseau said that Taiwan has valuable experience and good practices in the area of societal resilience, and that they are interested in learning more about Taiwan’s whole-of-society approach. They in Europe are facing interference, she said, mainly from Russia, and they know that Russia inspires others. She added that they in the EU also have experience regulating social media in a way which combines freedom of expression and responsibility. In closing, the chair said that they are happy to have the opportunity to exchange views with President Lai and that the European Parliament will continue to strongly support relations between the EU and Taiwan. The delegation also included Members of the European Parliament Engin Eroglu, Tomáš Zdechovský, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Kathleen Van Brempt, and Markéta Gregorová.
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2025-07-17
President Lai meets President of Guatemalan Congress Nery Abilio Ramos y Ramos  
On the morning of July 17, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Nery Abilio Ramos y Ramos, the president of the Congress of the Republic of Guatemala. In remarks, President Lai thanked Congress President Ramos and the Guatemalan Congress for their support for Taiwan, and noted that official diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Guatemala go back more than 90 years. As important partners in the global democratic community, the president said, the two nations will continue moving forward together in joint defense of the values of democracy and freedom, and will cooperate to promote regional and global prosperity and development. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:  I recall that when Congress President Ramos visited Taiwan in July last year, he put forward many ideas about how our countries could promote bilateral cooperation and exchanges. Now, a year later, he is leading another cross-party delegation from the Guatemalan Congress on a visit, demonstrating support for Taiwan and continuing to help deepen our diplomatic ties. In addition to extending a sincere welcome to the distinguished delegation members who have traveled so far to be here, I would also like to express our concern and condolences for everyone in Guatemala affected by the earthquake that struck earlier this month. We hope that the recovery effort is going smoothly. Official diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Guatemala go back more than 90 years. In such fields as healthcare, agriculture, education, and women’s empowerment, we have continually strengthened our cooperation to benefit our peoples. Just last month, Guatemala’s President Bernardo Arévalo and the First Lady led a delegation on a state visit to Taiwan. President Arévalo and I signed a letter of intent for semiconductor cooperation, and also witnessed the signing of cooperation documents to establish a political consultation mechanism and continue to promote bilateral investment. This has laid an even sounder foundation for bilateral exchanges and cooperation, and will help enhance both countries’ international competitiveness. Taiwan is currently running a semiconductor vocational training program, helping Guatemala cultivate semiconductor talent and develop its tech industry, and demonstrating our determination to share experience with democratic partners. At the same time, we continue to assist Taiwanese businesses in their efforts to develop overseas markets with Guatemala as an important base, spurring industrial development in both countries and increasing economic and trade benefits. I want to thank Congress President Ramos and the Guatemalan Congress for their continued support for Taiwan’s international participation. Representing the Guatemalan Congress, Congress President Ramos has signed resolutions in support of Taiwan, and has also issued statements addressing China’s misinterpretation of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758. Taiwan and Guatemala, as important partners in the global democratic community, will continue moving forward together in joint defense of the values of democracy and freedom, and will cooperate to promote regional and global prosperity and development. Congress President Ramos then delivered remarks, first noting that the members of the delegation are not only from different parties, but also represent different classes, cultures, professions, and departments, which shows that the diplomatic ties between Guatemala and the Republic of China (Taiwan) are based on firm friendships at all levels and in all fields. Noting that this was his second time to visit Taiwan and meet with President Lai, Congress President Ramos thanked the government of Taiwan for its warm hospitality. With the international situation growing more complex by the day, he said, Guatemala highly values its longstanding friendship and cooperative ties with Taiwan, and hopes that both sides can continue to deepen their cooperation in such areas as the economy, technology, education, agriculture, and culture, and work together to spur sustainable development in each of our countries. Congress President Ramos said that the way the Taiwan government looks after the well-being of its people is an excellent model for how other countries should promote national development and social well-being. Accordingly, he said, the Guatemalan Congress has stood for justice and, for a second time, adopted a resolution backing Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly. Regarding President Arévalo’s state visit to Taiwan the previous month, Congress President Ramos commented that this high-level interaction has undoubtedly strengthened the diplomatic ties between Taiwan and Guatemala and led to more opportunities for cooperation. Congress President Ramos emphasized that democracy, freedom, and human rights are universal values that bind Taiwan and Guatemala together, and that he is confident the two countries’ diplomatic ties will continue to grow deeper. In closing, on behalf of the Republic of Guatemala, Congress President Ramos presented President Lai with a Chinese translation of the resolution that the Guatemalan Congress proposed to the UN in support of Taiwan’s participation in international organizations, demonstrating the staunch bonds of friendship between the two countries. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Guatemala Ambassador Luis Raúl Estévez López.  
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2025-05-20
President Lai interviewed by Nippon Television and Yomiuri TV
In a recent interview on Nippon Television’s news zero program, President Lai Ching-te responded to questions from host Mr. Sakurai Sho and Yomiuri TV Shanghai Bureau Chief Watanabe Masayo on topics including reflections on his first year in office, cross-strait relations, China’s military threats, Taiwan-United States relations, and Taiwan-Japan relations. The interview was broadcast on the evening of May 19. During the interview, President Lai stated that China intends to change the world’s rules-based international order, and that if Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted. Therefore, he said, Taiwan will strengthen its national defense, prevent war by preparing for war, and achieve the goal of peace. The president also noted that Taiwan’s purpose for developing drones is based on national security and industrial needs, and that Taiwan hopes to collaborate with Japan. He then reiterated that China’s threats are an international problem, and expressed hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war. Following is the text of the questions and the president’s responses: Q: How do you feel as you are about to round out your first year in office? President Lai: When I was young, I was determined to practice medicine and save lives. When I left medicine to go into politics, I was determined to transform Taiwan. And when I was sworn in as president on May 20 last year, I was determined to strengthen the nation. Time flies, and it has already been a year. Although the process has been very challenging, I am deeply honored to be a part of it. I am also profoundly grateful to our citizens for allowing me the opportunity to give back to our country. The future will certainly be full of more challenges, but I will do everything I can to unite the people and continue strengthening the nation. That is how I am feeling now. Q: We are now coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and over this period, we have often heard that conflict between Taiwan and the mainland is imminent. Do you personally believe that a cross-strait conflict could happen? President Lai: The international community is very much aware that China intends to replace the US and change the world’s rules-based international order, and annexing Taiwan is just the first step. So, as China’s military power grows stronger, some members of the international community are naturally on edge about whether a cross-strait conflict will break out. The international community must certainly do everything in its power to avoid a conflict in the Taiwan Strait; there is too great a cost. Besides causing direct disasters to both Taiwan and China, the impact on the global economy would be even greater, with estimated losses of US$10 trillion from war alone – that is roughly 10 percent of the global GDP. Additionally, 20 percent of global shipping passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, so if a conflict breaks out in the strait, other countries including Japan and Korea would suffer a grave impact. For Japan and Korea, a quarter of external transit passes through the Taiwan Strait and surrounding waters, and a third of the various energy resources and minerals shipped back from other countries pass through said areas. If Taiwan were invaded, global supply chains would be disrupted, and therefore conflict in the Taiwan Strait must be avoided. Such a conflict is indeed avoidable. I am very thankful to Prime Minister of Japan Ishiba Shigeru and former Prime Ministers Abe Shinzo, Suga Yoshihide, and Kishida Fumio, as well as US President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden, and the other G7 leaders, for continuing to emphasize at international venues that peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. When everyone in the global democratic community works together, stacking up enough strength to make China’s objectives unattainable or to make the cost of invading Taiwan too high for it to bear, a conflict in the strait can naturally be avoided. Q: As you said, President Lai, maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is also very important for other countries. How can war be avoided? What sort of countermeasures is Taiwan prepared to take to prevent war? President Lai: As Mr. Sakurai mentioned earlier, we are coming up on the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. There are many lessons we can take from that war. First is that peace is priceless, and war has no winners. From the tragedies of WWII, there are lessons that humanity should learn. We must pursue peace, and not start wars blindly, as that would be a major disaster for humanity. In other words, we must be determined to safeguard peace. The second lesson is that we cannot be complacent toward authoritarian powers. If you give them an inch, they will take a mile. They will keep growing, and eventually, not only will peace be unattainable, but war will be inevitable. The third lesson is why WWII ended: It ended because different groups joined together in solidarity. Taiwan, Japan, and the Indo-Pacific region are all directly subjected to China’s threats, so we hope to be able to join together in cooperation. This is why we proposed the Four Pillars of Peace action plan. First, we will strengthen our national defense. Second, we will strengthen economic resilience. Third is standing shoulder to shoulder with the democratic community to demonstrate the strength of deterrence. Fourth is that as long as China treats Taiwan with parity and dignity, Taiwan is willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China, and seek peace and mutual prosperity. These four pillars can help us avoid war and achieve peace. That is to say, Taiwan hopes to achieve peace through strength, prevent war by preparing for war, keeping war from happening and pursuing the goal of peace. Q: Regarding drones, everyone knows that recently, Taiwan has been actively researching, developing, and introducing drones. Why do you need to actively research, develop, and introduce new drones at this time? President Lai: This is for two purposes. The first is to meet national security needs. The second is to meet industrial development needs. Because Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines are all part of the first island chain, and we are all democratic nations, we cannot be like an authoritarian country like China, which has an unlimited national defense budget. In this kind of situation, island nations such as Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines should leverage their own technologies to develop national defense methods that are asymmetric and utilize unmanned vehicles. In particular, from the Russo-Ukrainian War, we see that Ukraine has successfully utilized unmanned vehicles to protect itself and prevent Russia from unlimited invasion. In other words, the Russo-Ukrainian War has already proven the importance of drones. Therefore, the first purpose of developing drones is based on national security needs. Second, the world has already entered the era of smart technology. Whether generative, agentic, or physical, AI will continue to develop. In the future, cars and ships will also evolve into unmanned vehicles and unmanned boats, and there will be unmanned factories. Drones will even be able to assist with postal deliveries, or services like Uber, Uber Eats, and foodpanda, or agricultural irrigation and pesticide spraying. Therefore, in the future era of comprehensive smart technology, developing unmanned vehicles is a necessity. Taiwan, based on industrial needs, is actively planning the development of drones and unmanned vehicles. I would like to take this opportunity to express Taiwan’s hope to collaborate with Japan in the unmanned vehicle industry. Just as we do in the semiconductor industry, where Japan has raw materials, equipment, and technology, and Taiwan has wafer manufacturing, our two countries can cooperate. Japan is a technological power, and Taiwan also has significant technological strengths. If Taiwan and Japan work together, we will not only be able to safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and security in the Indo-Pacific region, but it will also be very helpful for the industrial development of both countries. Q: The drones you just described probably include examples from the Russo-Ukrainian War. Taiwan and China are separated by the Taiwan Strait. Do our drones need to have cross-sea flight capabilities? President Lai: Taiwan does not intend to counterattack the mainland, and does not intend to invade any country. Taiwan’s drones are meant to protect our own nation and territory. Q: Former President Biden previously stated that US forces would assist Taiwan’s defense in the event of an attack. President Trump, however, has yet to clearly state that the US would help defend Taiwan. Do you think that in such an event, the US would help defend Taiwan? Or is Taiwan now trying to persuade the US? President Lai: Former President Biden and President Trump have answered questions from reporters. Although their responses were different, strong cooperation with Taiwan under the Biden administration has continued under the Trump administration; there has been no change. During President Trump’s first term, cooperation with Taiwan was broader and deeper compared to former President Barack Obama’s terms. After former President Biden took office, cooperation with Taiwan increased compared to President Trump’s first term. Now, during President Trump’s second term, cooperation with Taiwan is even greater than under former President Biden. Taiwan-US cooperation continues to grow stronger, and has not changed just because President Trump and former President Biden gave different responses to reporters. Furthermore, the Trump administration publicly stated that in the future, the US will shift its strategic focus from Europe to the Indo-Pacific. The US secretary of defense even publicly stated that the primary mission of the US is to prevent China from invading Taiwan, maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific, and thus maintain world peace. There is a saying in Taiwan that goes, “Help comes most to those who help themselves.” Before asking friends and allies for assistance in facing threats from China, Taiwan must first be determined and prepared to defend itself. This is Taiwan’s principle, and we are working in this direction, making all the necessary preparations to safeguard the nation. Q: I would like to ask you a question about Taiwan-Japan relations. After the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, you made an appeal to give Japan a great deal of assistance and care. In particular, you visited Sendai to offer condolences. Later, you also expressed condolences and concern after the earthquakes in Aomori and Kumamoto. What are your expectations for future Taiwan-Japan exchanges and development? President Lai: I come from Tainan, and my constituency is in Tainan. Tainan has very deep ties with Japan, and of course, Taiwan also has deep ties with Japan. However, among Taiwan’s 22 counties and cities, Tainan has the deepest relationship with Japan. I sincerely hope that both of you and your teams will have an opportunity to visit Tainan. I will introduce Tainan’s scenery, including architecture from the era of Japanese rule, Tainan’s cuisine, and unique aspects of Tainan society, and you can also see lifestyles and culture from the Showa era.  The Wushantou Reservoir in Tainan was completed by engineer Mr. Hatta Yoichi from Kanazawa, Japan and the team he led to Tainan after he graduated from then-Tokyo Imperial University. It has nearly a century of history and is still in use today. This reservoir, along with the 16,000-km-long Chianan Canal, transformed the 150,000-hectare Chianan Plain into Taiwan’s premier rice-growing area. It was that foundation in agriculture that enabled Taiwan to develop industry and the technology sector of today. The reservoir continues to supply water to Tainan Science Park. It is used by residents of Tainan, the agricultural sector, and industry, and even the technology sector in Xinshi Industrial Park, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Because of this, the people of Tainan are deeply grateful for Mr. Hatta and very friendly toward the people of Japan. A major earthquake, the largest in 50 years, struck Tainan on February 6, 2016, resulting in significant casualties. As mayor of Tainan at the time, I was extremely grateful to then-Prime Minister Abe, who sent five Japanese officials to the disaster site in Tainan the day after the earthquake. They were very thoughtful and asked what kind of assistance we needed from the Japanese government. They offered to provide help based on what we needed. I was deeply moved, as former Prime Minister Abe showed such care, going beyond the formality of just sending supplies that we may or may not have actually needed. Instead, the officials asked what we needed and then provided assistance based on those needs, which really moved me. Similarly, when the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 or the later Kumamoto earthquakes struck, the people of Tainan, under my leadership, naturally and dutifully expressed their support. Even earlier, when central Taiwan was hit by a major earthquake in 1999, Japan was the first country to deploy a rescue team to the disaster area. On February 6, 2018, after a major earthquake in Hualien, former Prime Minister Abe appeared in a video holding up a message of encouragement he had written in calligraphy saying “Remain strong, Taiwan.” All of Taiwan was deeply moved. Over the years, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other when earthquakes struck, and have forged bonds that are family-like, not just neighborly. This is truly valuable. In the future, I hope Taiwan and Japan can be like brothers, and that the peoples of Taiwan and Japan can treat one another like family. If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem; if Japan has a problem, then Taiwan has a problem. By caring for and helping each other, we can face various challenges and difficulties, and pursue a brighter future. Q: President Lai, you just used the phrase “If Taiwan has a problem, then Japan has a problem.” In the event that China attempts to invade Taiwan by force, what kind of response measures would you hope the US military and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces take? President Lai: As I just mentioned, annexing Taiwan is only China’s first step. Its ultimate objective is to change the rules-based international order. That being the case, China’s threats are an international problem. So, I would very much hope to work together with the US, Japan, and others in the global democratic community to prevent China from starting a war – prevention, after all, is more important than cure.
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