Office of the President Republic of China(Taiwan)

On the morning of July 18, President Lai Ching-te met with international and Taiwanese members of the organizing committee for the 2024 Junior Chamber International (JCI) World Congress. In remarks, President Lai said that Taiwan will host this year’s JCI World Congress, adding that young leaders from many nations will focus on such issues as entrepreneurship and innovation, green economy, and carbon emissions reduction under the event’s theme, “Technological Innovation for a Prosperous and Sustainable Future.” The president thanked JCI for supporting Taiwan and expressed his hope for Taiwan to harness the power for change through this event, as we work together to make the world a better place. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: In October, Taiwan will host the 2024 JCI World Congress. Over the past several years, I have enjoyed many interactions with partners from JCI, and I am delighted to be able to welcome you all to the Presidential Office today. I wish the congress great success and thank all of our JCI partners for their contributions. Over the years, JCI Taiwan has been actively involved in public affairs. Its Ten Outstanding Young Persons award encourages young people to contribute even more to society. It was an honor for me to serve as chairman of the panel of judges for the awards and to work with JCI in promoting this meaningful event.  As one of the world’s four major international service organizations, JCI continues to marshal the forces of its 350,000-strong global membership and community resources to promote global development. The 2024 JCI World Congress in October will bring together more than 6,000 people from 120 countries. The event will see young leaders from these nations focus on such issues as entrepreneurship and innovation, green economy, and carbon emissions reduction under its theme, “Technological Innovation for a Prosperous and Sustainable Future.” I understand that JCI President Kaveen Kumar Kumaravel’s vision for his fellow members is “Let’s make a difference!” We are delighted to welcome the president and thank him for helping facilitate Taiwan’s hosting of this year’s world congress, so that we can harness the power for change as we work together to make the world a better place. In closing, I want to extend my special thanks to JCI Chung-Li for winning the bid for Taiwan’s right to host the world congress. And I thank all of our guests once again for supporting Taiwan. I wish you a successful visit and the very best for the JCI World Congress. Also in attendance at the meeting was JCI Secretary General Kevin Hin.

On the morning of September 28, President Tsai Ing-wen attended the opening ceremony of the third session of the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce (WTCC) 28th board of directors and supervisors meeting in Kaohsiung. In remarks, President Tsai noted that Taiwanese businesspeople are at the forefront of their various industries and leading Taiwan's international engagement. The president said that Taiwan is showing the world that it is a force for good and demonstrating that it can be a key global economic force. A translation of the president's remarks follows: Whenever I attend WTCC events, I can really feel that the Taiwanese business community is united behind the WTCC. It's deeply moving to see so many Taiwanese businesspeople having traveled from all over the world to be back home. Many others are also taking part in today's meeting online. I hope you can all come back to Taiwan soon. Last week, we announced the gradual loosening of our border restrictions. I am sure that my fellow citizens, everyone in attendance today, and all those joining us online are looking forward to our borders reopening. We are taking another step toward life as normal. On behalf of the government, I want to welcome you all, and to thank the WTCC for providing this opportunity for exchange. We also have a number of friends from the US here at today's event. This past March, when former Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo visited the Presidential Office, I invited him to visit Taiwan often. I'm very glad that we can see each other again so soon after his last visit. On behalf of the Taiwanese people, I want to welcome Mr. Pompeo, Mr. [Stephen J.] Yates, and Mr. [Christian] Whiton back to Taiwan. Thank you for recognizing Taiwan's importance and supporting Taiwan. On this trip, they have come to Kaohsiung to visit businesses and conduct exchanges with industry representatives and Taiwanese businesspeople. I am confident that this visit will greatly benefit both our nations. We look forward to further expanding Taiwan-US cooperation and exchanges. I want to take this opportunity to thank all of our friends from the Taiwanese business community for working with us to advance our diplomatic efforts and introduce Taiwan to the world. At the start of the pandemic, WTCC partners donated money and supplies to many countries to fight the virus. And after Russia invaded Ukraine, a group of WTCC members traveled to Poland to help Ukrainian refugees. You are always on the frontlines, taking prompt action. For this, I want to express my deepest gratitude to you all. We also hope to work with you all to expand Taiwan's global economic and trade presence. We are closely following the situation faced by our compatriots around the world, and have initiated a relief program to work with our friends in the Taiwanese business community in overcoming the challenges of the pandemic. I have asked the Overseas Community Affairs Council to stay on top of the challenges and operational issues that you encounter abroad, and to give you the utmost support. I also want to tell you all that, as Taiwan continues to engage with the world, the international community also continues to expand its presence in Taiwan and view Taiwan favorably. Under our government's Three Major Programs for Investing in Taiwan, as of this month, we have seen nearly NT$1.8 trillion in cumulative investment from more than 1,250 firms. Through these efforts, we want to show the world that Taiwan is a force for good, and demonstrate that we can be a key global economic force. Taiwan's semiconductor sector is a focus of global attention. Many visitors from abroad, including last week's delegation from the Czech Republic, have told me they hope to step up exchanges with our semiconductor industry. We have been working for some time to shore up our strengths in this sector. Having already established semiconductor academies in cooperation with six schools across Taiwan, we are accelerating our efforts in talent cultivation while continuing to develop Taiwan's semiconductor industry clusters. Over the past two years, Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai (陳其邁) has worked hard to improve municipal public services, and has truly spared no effort to help Kaohsiung become a center for semiconductors, high tech, and smart technologies. Just last month here in Kaohsiung, construction started at the Nanzih Technology Industrial Park, where Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company has chosen to build a new plant. Set to start operation in 2024, this park is initially expected to generate more than NT$150 billion in annual output. I trust you all share my optimistic outlook on Kaohsiung's future development. Aside from semiconductors, our new Ministry of Digital Affairs was established last month. This ministry will help our businesses accelerate digital transformation, promote industrial development, and optimize Taiwan's environment for digital economic growth. Each of you is a leader in your respective industry, and is helping integrate Taiwanese business with the world. With Taiwan's capabilities, technology, and outstanding talent like you, I am confident that Taiwan can also be a leader in global industrial development. I look forward to realizing this goal together with all of you. Thank you once again to the WTCC and all of you here for your support and contributions to Taiwan. I wish you a productive annual meeting. Thank you. American Institute in Taiwan Kaohsiung Branch Office Chief Thomas Wong and former US Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo also attended the event.

On the evening of January 25 (morning of January 26 Taipei time), Vice President Lai Ching-te attended a videoconference hosted by members of Taiwan's overseas community in Los Angeles to welcome him on a stopover on his trip to Honduras. In remarks during the meeting, the vice president highlighted Taiwan's successes in disease prevention and economic development, and emphasized that Taiwan will work to overcome setbacks in order to further improve our nation and show the international community that we are an active force for good in the world.  In his remarks, the vice president explained that on this visit, he is traveling to Honduras as special envoy of President Tsai Ing-wen to attend the inauguration of the Central American country's first woman President, Xiomara Castro, and that he had specifically arranged to transit through the US as part of the itinerary. The vice president thanked the US government as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their work to make his stopover safe, smooth, and enjoyable, and added that he had also used the stopover as an opportunity to exchange views with members of US Congress on issues related to Taiwan, cross-strait relations, and Asia more broadly.   Vice President Lai thanked the members of the overseas community in Los Angeles for coming to his hotel to welcome him, and lamented that he would be unable to shake hands with or embrace his friends on this trip because of the pandemic. The vice president mentioned that there had been a relatively small-scale dinner with overseas community members originally planned for the trip, but that because the spread of the pandemic in the US, he had decided to forego the dinner in line with the priority of disease prevention and out of a desire to avoid any oversight that might bring COVID-19 back into Taiwan. The vice president expressed hope that there would nevertheless be many future opportunities for more extensive exchanges, both in Taiwan and in the US.  The vice president explained that on his trip to the Republic of Honduras, the president had given him a three-part mission – to strengthen Taiwan-Honduras ties, bilateral cooperation, and Taiwan's broader international participation – and had also instructed him to express thanks to the leaders and members of Taiwan's overseas community, including for their campaign launched in the early stages of the pandemic to donate face masks and other protective equipment. He added that members of US Congress with whom he had spoken prior to the event had also mentioned this campaign, and said he was deeply proud of the positive impact that our overseas community has had on American society. Vice President Lai mentioned that he had brought spring couplets, red envelopes, and commemorative coins as gifts, and would also present overseas community members with special hanging decorations as tokens of gratitude from Taiwan. On the subject of the COVID-19 pandemic in Taiwan, Vice President Lai pointed out that under President Tsai's leadership, government agencies have worked together effectively, medical personnel have served bravely on the front lines of our response, and the Taiwanese people have cooperated with our government's disease prevention policies. To address the spread of the highly infectious Omicron variant of COVID-19, relevant government agencies have made an all-out effort to promote our national vaccination program, under which, to date, more than 80 percent of Taiwanese have received at least one vaccine shot, and more than 70 percent have received at least two shots. Going forward, our government will continue working to increase third-dose coverage in order to protect the health of our people. The vice president cited members of Taiwan's medical community and public health experts in saying that though the Omicron variant is highly infectious, it has a lower morbidity rate, which has prompted considerations of how to adjust disease prevention policy, as well as an awareness that we will inevitably start to move toward coexistence with the virus. He emphasized, however, that the process would need to be conducted with all due care, and that disease prevention policy would be slowly adjusted so as to preserve social stability, prevent panic, and avoid endangering the health and welfare of our people. The vice president summarized the government's approach, saying that it will develop and implement a comprehensive policy that ensures that neither Taiwan's people, society, nor economy will be affected by the transmissibility of the Omicron variant.    The vice president said that the international community has become aware of Taiwan's strength in public health and our national unity because of our successful response to the pandemic as well as the solid industrial and commercial foundation that we have laid over the past few decades. He noted that the world saw how the creativity and technical prowess of the Taiwanese people allowed us to swiftly make up for shortages in global production capacity, and that Taiwan's economic growth rate for 2020 reached 3.11 percent, the highest among the Four Asian Tigers. In addition, the vice president pointed out that Taiwan has experienced 17 consecutive months of positive growth in export orders, which, together with these other achievements, is the result of everyone's hard work, and shows that containing the pandemic has also stabilized our economy. Vice President Lai also recalled his earlier discussion with members of US Congress, who all praised Taiwan's staunch commitment to democracy, and were also aware of the frequent incursions made by Chinese military aircraft into Taiwan's Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) as well as Beijing's many disinformation campaigns and attempts to divide Taiwanese society. The vice president reaffirmed Taiwan's commitment to democracy and refusal to bow to authoritarianism, and noted that the US is not the only country to firmly support Taiwan, as Taiwan is now seen as a reasonable, united, cooperative, and progressive country on the international stage. He said that democracy is in Taiwan's DNA, and that the unanimous support for Taiwan in both the Democratic and Republican parties is also key to our global image. Vice President Lai emphasized that, going forward, Taiwan will face many challenges, such as reaching our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050, restructuring industrial supply chains in the wake of the pandemic, realizing the structural transformation of our economy, and navigating a changing geopolitical landscape, all of which require us to be united and which, at the same time, provide our country with opportunities for revitalization. The vice president said that, after decades of hard work and dedication, our transformation from an aid recipient to a country that offers external assistance highlights our responsibility to help others. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, our overseas community has provided funds and personnel to help fight the pandemic in their local communities, and Taiwan has donated masks to countries in need. Vice President Lai said that we will view setbacks as sources of encouragement in order to further improve our nation and show the international community that Taiwan is a global force for good, and encouraged everyone to work together toward this vision. The vice president concluded by saying that the image of 40 overseas community leaders on his screen was both impressive and heartwarming as a symbol of how Taiwan has had a positive impact on places across the world. He wished everyone taking part in this meeting good health and a happy Year of the Tiger.

On the morning of July 19 local time (evening of July 19 Taipei time), President Tsai Ing-wen concluded her visit to St. Lucia and made a transit stop in Denver on her way back to Taiwan following her Journey of Freedom, Democracy, and Sustainability. The delegation's chartered plane arrived at Denver International Airport after a six-hour flight. Taiwan's Representative to the United States Stanley Kao (高碩泰) and American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Chairman James Moriarty boarded the plane to welcome the president. The president and her delegation subsequently proceeded to their hotel, where she received a very enthusiastic welcome from the overseas Taiwanese community. In the evening, President Tsai attended a banquet with the local and Taiwanese expatriate communities in Denver. The president thanked the expatriates for their support and said that the government is willing to share with the international community Taiwan's experience and valuable success stories. She reiterated that Taiwan will also stand firm in upholding our democracy, cherishing our freedom, and safeguarding our sovereignty, so that young people will continue to enjoy our free and democratic way of life. Following is a transcript of the president's remarks: Good evening everyone. It's great to be here in the Mile High City. First, I want to take a moment to recognize some of our good friends in the audience tonight. Of course, we have Governor Jared Polis, and Senator Cory Gardner, Congressman Doug Lamborn, and of course, Chairman Moriarty, my old friend, and who was with me in New York as well. It is wonderful to have all of you here with us, and to see friends of Taiwan here in the US. So let's give our US friends a round of applause for their support. I also want to thank members of the Colorado House and Senate for their presence today. Thank you. (End of English remarks) President Tsai continued her remarks in Mandarin and Taiwanese. Following is a translation of her remarks. I would also like to take this opportunity to introduce three legislators that accompanied us on this trip: Legislators Kuan Bi-ling (管碧玲), Lo Chih-cheng (羅致政) , and Chao Tien-lin (趙天麟). They've been hard at work sharing the successes of our trip on social media over the past few days. Let's have a round of applause for these hardworking members of our diplomatic taskforce! I hear that the room is packed tonight. Six hundred guests showed up for this event that was meant or four hundred people. Joining us tonight are many friends from out of state, in addition to those from Colorado. They've driven a long way to be here in Denver tonight. But the person who traveled the farthest to be here tonight is me. I'm the President from Taiwan. Thank you all for driving so far to come to Denver to see me. Really, thank you so much. (End of Mandarin and Taiwanese remarks) President Tsai continued her remarks in English. Following is a transcript of the remarks: Denver is a young, diverse city known for its innovation and creativity. More than that, Denver embodies the freedom of the settlers who built this city, who bravely walked a new path to show the way for future generations. Our Journey of Freedom, Democracy, and Sustainability also led us on a path to find new opportunities for sustainable growth amidst the many challenges that are facing us. This journey took us to Haiti, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Saint Lucia. We saw how Taiwan is working with each of these countries to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals in the Caribbean. And seeing this work in person has only reinforced my belief that Taiwan can, and should, do more to help. We have so much experience to offer the world, whether in sustainable development, economic growth, or good governance. Taiwan's cooperation model is one of reciprocity, of growth that is both tangible and sustainable. Taiwan is and always will be a champion for freedom, democracy, and the rule of law across the globe. Many of you have probably read the speech I gave at Columbia University during our transit in New York, where I told Taiwan's story on the frontlines of democracy. As I prepared to enter the lecture hall that day, a group of Chinese protestors stood across the street, waving banners attacking my freedom of speech, and my duty to speak on behalf of my people. They sought to use their loud voices to stifle Taiwan's voice of hope, to see us back down in the face of their suppression. But I want to be very clear: The people of Taiwan are not, and will never be, intimidated. And neither was I, as I took the stage that day to proudly share our story. Each day, Taiwan stands strong in the face of suppression and growing threats, and the world needs to hear this story. In my three years as president, I have worked to make the voices of the Taiwanese people heard. And I intend to continue to do so for another four years as well. As authoritarian forces seek to subvert freedom around the world, our experiences, and our successes, serve as valuable lessons. Because democracy is our most precious asset, and we must protect it at all costs. That is why the Taiwan-US partnership, grounded in the values of freedom and democracy, is now more important than ever. The US has long worked to maintain a free, democratic, rules-based international system. And Taiwan, as a bastion of democracy in the Indo-Pacific, has been an ideal partner in this endeavor. Our partnership works because we hold many of the same beliefs. Like the city of Denver, we know that the future belongs to the next generation. As president, it's my job to give young people both the freedom to dream, and the opportunity to pursue those dreams. It's also my responsibility to ensure their right to choose their own future through democratic means. And I take these jobs very seriously. That is why my administration has continued to push for reforms that will transform Taiwan's economic structure, giving our economy the flexibility it needs to respond to changes in the global trade order. We have stood steadfast in our defense of Taiwan's sovereignty and democracy. And we are working to counter external forces that look to infiltrate our society by drafting new laws to defend our national security. Our work has paid off across the board. As the world continues to feel the aftershocks of the US-China trade war, Taiwanese firms are returning to invest in Taiwan in record numbers. What's more, many of the world's top innovators, such as Google and Amazon, are expanding their investments in Taiwan. They recognize that our democratic system, strong rule of law, and protection for intellectual property rights create a strong ecosystem where they can invest with confidence. This ecosystem is creating space for young people to innovate and dream big. Seeing the work they are doing, and the vision they have for our future, gives me hope for a brighter tomorrow. Despite the challenges we face, Taiwan's future is promising. The international community stands with us, and we stand determined to contribute more to freedom, democracy, and sustainable development across the globe. (End of English remarks) President Tsai continued her remarks in Mandarin and Taiwanese. Following is a translation of her remarks. Many of you abroad are concerned about Taiwan's future. I know that many of you are very anxious, and feel that China is closing in on us. By using the carrot and stick approach, China wants to force the "one country, two systems" model on Taiwan. Hong Kong is slowly losing its democratic freedoms, so a lot of people are afraid that Taiwan may one day lose its sovereignty and democracy. Taiwan is indeed under tremendous pressure. But there's only one thing that a President must do: Stand up to that pressure. Like I said, no matter whether I was transiting in New York or Denver, or even making State Visits to our diplomatic allies, China's suppression follows me everywhere. This is because they do not want to see a President of Taiwan embracing and engaging the world. The more I do, the more they protest. This freedom to protest can only be enjoyed in democratic countries. Those friends from China should cherish these freedoms that their "motherland" lacks. Just look at what recently happened in Hong Kong, and you will understand how precious freedom and democracy are. This is not just about protests. For some time now, people have seen China wage information warfare, and use disinformation to infiltrate Taiwan's society. Many international press have commented on how China takes advantage of freedom of speech in Taiwan to interfere in our media and subvert Taiwan's freedom. Over the past few years, an endless stream of disinformation has come out of nowhere to attack Taiwan, to attack the Taiwan government, and to attack me. Because we have an election coming up in 6 months, these attacks are increasing by the day. Many of these attacks are ridiculous. But if they go on long enough, they can appear to be true. So when you see questionable information, do not pass it on, immediately investigate, and help clarify it. Those 3 things will help Taiwan defend democracy and protect freedom of speech. Of course, we're already working hard to stop the flow of disinformation that undermines democracy through international cooperation and the amendment of domestic laws. And I also want everyone to know that I'm doing a lot on social media including Facebook, LINE, and Twitter. So please follow me there to get the fastest, most direct information. International and domestic suppression by China never stops. However, I can promise you all that no matter how great the pressure, I will stand firm. Taiwan will also stand firm in upholding our democracy, cherishing our freedom, and safeguarding our sovereignty. We absolutely will not buckle under pressure. I want to remind everyone: For Taiwan, the year 2020 is crucial. This is a test we have to pass. External and internal challenges are growing by the day. So now more than ever, we have to unite to defend Taiwan's democracy. Not just for yourself, and not just for Tsai Ing-wen. It's for the future of our youth. We must protect their future, so that we can all continue to enjoy a free and democratic lifestyle. In 2020, it's crucial that we defend democracy. United we stand, divided we fall. Next January, I invite you all to come back to Taiwan. Let's join forces to fight for Taiwan. Thank you, everyone. Thank you. (End of the president's remarks) AIT Chairman Moriarty noted in his remarks that the passage of the Taiwan Relations Act 40 years ago laid the foundation for the development of Taiwan-US relations, and these relations have indeed flourished. Taiwan enjoys bipartisan support in the United States. Democratic Taiwan and the United States have many shared values, and this makes people-to-people ties between the two countries all the closer. Colorado Governor Polis mentioned that it was a great honor to welcome President Tsai to Colorado on behalf of the people of his state, and that he hoped to take this opportunity to expand economic, trade, and cultural exchanges between Colorado and Taiwan. Noting that Taiwan recently became the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, the governor praised President Tsai for her strong leadership. Congressman Lamborn, in his remarks, stated that Taiwan and the United States have a deep friendship, and will continue to maintain close cooperative ties moving forward. He also mentioned that he will cooperate with the Trump administration to ensure regular, normalized arms sales to Taiwan. Senator Gardner said that Asia Reassurance Initiative Act was passed to ensure that arms are sold to Taiwan are normalized. He further pledged that he will continue working to enhance Taiwan-US relations, and will actively push for the signing of a free trade agreement with Taiwan. Shortly thereafter, Senator Gardner gave President Tsai a copy of the US Congressional Record as a symbol of the excellent friendship between Taiwan and the United States, and several Colorado state senators and representatives presented President Tsai with a Colorado state flag as well as a US flag.

While transiting in New York on her Journey of Freedom, Democracy, and Sustainability, President Tsai Ing-wen went for a stroll with young Taiwan-Americans in New York City's Central Park on the morning of July 13 (evening Taipei time). New York is an important global center for business, finance, culture, and art, attracting many young Taiwanese-Americans who live, study, and work there. Their stroll gave the president an opportunity to really understand their work situations and lifestyles, and share what she has learned on her journey and her vision for the future of Taiwan. President Tsai took part in this event hoping to encourage young Taiwanese-Americans to develop their professional expertise, and establish more international connections for themselves and Taiwan, by participating in activities of all kinds.   During their stroll, the Taiwanese-American young people welcomed the president with enthusiasm, and their interactions were warm and friendly. President Tsai graciously took group photos, and signed T-shirts and photos to keep as souvenirs. The president, accompanied by American Institute in Taiwan Chairman James Moriarty, then headed for Pier 62 where they boarded a boat for some sight-seeing on the Hudson River, passing the various riverbank parks, One World Trade Center, Wall Street and the Financial District, Ellis Island, Governor's Island, and the Statue of Liberty—symbol of freedom and democracy. Among those attending the event were National Security Council Secretary-General David T. Lee (李大維), Foreign Minister Joseph Wu (吳釗燮), Representative to the United States Stanley Kao (高碩泰), Taoyuan City Mayor Cheng Wen-Tsan (鄭文燦), and Legislators Kuan, Bi-Ling (管碧玲), Chao Tien-lin (趙天麟), and Lo Chih-Cheng (羅致政). After wrapping up her New York City transit stop at noon, President Tsai departed for Taiwan's diplomatic ally, the Republic of Haiti.

President Lai Ching-te on the morning of October 10 attended the ROC’s 114th Double Tenth National Day Celebration in the plaza fronting the Presidential Office Building, and delivered an address titled “A New Taiwan Rises in a Time of Change.” A translation of the president’s address follows: National Day Celebration Chairperson Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜), Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), Her Excellency the Governor-General of Belize Froyla Tzalam and Mr. Daniel Mendez, His Excellency the Governor-General of St. Lucia Errol Charles and First Lady Anysia Charles, President of the Chamber of Deputies of the Republic of Paraguay Raúl Latorre, Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council Chairman Furuya Keiji, heads of delegations from diplomatic allies and friendly nations, members of the foreign diplomatic corps in Taiwan, distinguished guests from home and abroad, and my fellow citizens here in person and watching on TV or online: Good morning. Today is the National Day of the Republic of China, and while we gather every year to celebrate the nation’s birthday, this year is an especially significant one. It is a historic year for Taiwan’s democratization. One month ago, September 10, was the historic date when the number of days Taiwan had spent free from martial law officially surpassed the number of days endured under its stifling rule. This signifies that we have parted entirely from an authoritarian regime and its shadow, and have ushered in a democratic future full of hope. We will not forget the blood and tears of those who united to defend against aggression, nor will we forget the selfless sacrifices of past generations in pursuit of democracy and freedom, granting sovereignty to the people. Those stories, which have become woven into the fabric of our land, are our collective memory. Democratic Taiwan, forged through untold hardships, is what most clearly positions the 23 million people of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu in this world. Taiwan is a beacon of democracy in Asia. For every person still living in darkness under authoritarian rule, we forever shine the light of hope. This year also saw Taiwan’s rise. Nations around the world are suffering drastic changes and challenges, and Taiwan is no exception. In addition to the Russia-Ukraine war, turmoil in the Middle East, and China’s continued military expansion, the United States’ tariff policy has delivered a blow to economies and industries alike. But the people of Taiwan are still on their feet. And not only that – this year’s economic performance greatly impressed the global community. According to the Asian Development Bank’s latest report, Taiwan’s economic growth rate this year leapt from 3.3 to 5.1 percent, leading the Four Asian Tigers and surpassing China. Taiwanese exports have continued to reach record highs, and employment is at its best in 25 years. Our stock market has also risen for six consecutive months, hitting an all-time high of 27,301 points. Taiwan’s market capitalization has topped US$3 trillion, making our stock market the world’s eighth largest, and foreign exchange reserves surpassed US$600 billion for the first time, setting a new record. In the midst of adversity, we remain undaunted. In the midst of challenges, we grow ever stronger. These are achievements that the people of Taiwan made together. Let us all celebrate them!  These impressive economic accomplishments also reflect the stellar record of Taiwan’s semiconductor, ICT, electronic component, and other leading industries. Their advantageous position in the global supply chain is the result of long-term key policies for the development of technological and manufacturing capabilities, unique business models, and government-led science parks. This is a monumental industrial achievement forged by decades of combined efforts, and it belongs to all the people of Taiwan. As president, it is my mission to protect these valuable assets and use them to boost Taiwan’s and even worldwide industrial and economic growth, helping to create even better lives for people in Taiwan and around the world. This is also the direction Taiwan is taking. Of course, we will certainly not ignore the formidable challenges in this time of global change, and the risks they pose to different industries, different fields, and groups of different backgrounds. Many of the champions, traditional industries, and micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) leading Taiwan’s economic growth from behind the scenes are facing the pressure of the digital and net-zero transition. Many workers feel concerned and uneasy about job opportunities, salaries, commodity prices, and cost of living in the face of the AI wave. Farmers are also being impacted by an aging rural population and market liberalization. The government will not take these challenges lightly, and will not ignore the impact they have on each and every citizen. It is our responsibility to put our full effort into assisting traditional industries, MSMEs, working families, and those in the agricultural and fishing industries. Therefore, in addition to having proposed a 93-billion-NT-dollar tariff impact support plan to help enterprises, workers, and those in the agricultural and fishing industries weather this difficult time, the government will also be investing tens of billions of dollars each year to help MSMEs introduce AI into their work so they can move toward digital and net-zero upgrading and transformation and address challenges. For traditional machine tools, screws and nuts, and other industries that are facing difficulties, we will also be proposing separate countermeasures to actively help boost competitiveness and expand the market. My fellow citizens, times of change are also times of opportunity. Taiwan’s economic performance is clear for all to see, and our key position in the global supply chain can neither be challenged nor replaced. In the face of change, we must not doubt ourselves or waver, but seize opportunities with confidence and bravely follow through. We must not be complacent or turn back, but even more proactively forge ahead in the world. A Taiwan that is certain will serve as an important, reliable, and steady force for an uncertain world. Moving ahead, we will adopt three major strategies in order to ensure the Republic of China Taiwan’s competitive advantage: First, we will expand investment in Taiwan. Our Three Major Programs for Investing in Taiwan have yielded substantial results. Investment has surpassed NT$2.5 trillion, creating over 160,000 job opportunities. In July, the Executive Yuan extended the programs to 2027 while also expanding applicable industries and eligibility to include overseas Taiwanese businesses worldwide and foreign investing enterprises. The government is continuing to optimize the investment environment, adding NT$720 billion in new loans to attract investment in Taiwan and bring in an estimated NT$1.2 trillion in capital and 80,000 more job opportunities. Besides having good work, we should also have good lives. With this in mind, the government launched the Trillion NT Dollar Investment National Development Plan to encourage copious investment of private capital in public infrastructure through innovative public-private partnerships. It expands funding for construction while at the same time promoting critical infrastructure projects across counties and cities nationwide, in areas such as water, electricity, housing, education, healthcare, culture, tourism, and transportation. This will help meet local residents’ needs so they can live happy lives, and enable industries and spheres of living to develop in a complementary way so that we can achieve our goal of a balanced Taiwan. Second, we will deepen international economic and trade cooperation, and expand our global presence. This year, Taiwan and the United Kingdom, under the framework of our Enhanced Trade Partnership arrangement, additionally signed three pillar arrangements in investment, digital trade, and energy and net-zero. This marks a new milestone for Taiwan-UK economic and trade relations, showing our mutual commitment to high international trade standards and laying the foundation for cooperation in technology, advanced manufacturing, and other strategic industries. Moving ahead, Taiwan will sign bilateral economic and trade cooperation agreements with even more friends and allies while upholding the principle of mutual benefits. We will also actively engage in reciprocal tariff negotiations with the US to secure a reasonable rate, resolve the trade deficit between Taiwan and the US, and deepen industrial cooperation. This will enable Taiwan’s economic development to become more globally connected and thereby make great strides. Third, we are building a chain of “guardian mountains” to shore up Taiwan’s industrial capabilities. In this digital age, we will implement 10 new AI infrastructure initiatives. In addition to helping make Taiwan one of the world’s top five computing centers, we will also invest more vigorously in R&D in three key technological fields: quantum technology, silicon photonics, and robotics. This will facilitate the introduction of AI tools in different sectors and professions, and promote the application of AI in various fields, helping Taiwan move toward an era of comprehensive smart technology and continue to maintain its leading position in global tech development. We are also building Taiwan into a hub in Asia for asset management. This will not only help retain trillions in Taiwanese capital, but attract investment in Taiwan with international capital, promoting growth in the financial industry, creating quality job opportunities, and strengthening Taiwan. The biopharmaceutical industry is a key national industry and has thus been included in our National Project of Hope. We are also developing toward greater use of precision health in health maintenance, preventive medicine, diagnosis, treatment, and care, giving our nation durable competitiveness and advancing the well-being of our people. Next year, our National Infectious Diseases Bank will be completed, and Taiwan will continue stepping up its cooperation with other countries in the field of biotechnology. Through our program for investment in smart healthcare innovation and entrepreneurship, with its budget of NT$10 billion, we will encourage more firms to invest in innovative R&D, expand investment, and move the biomedical industry toward becoming a trillion-NT-dollar industry, which will be one more guardian mountain for our nation. My fellow citizens, Taiwan is for all the people of Taiwan. We are well aware that no matter how impressive our economic performance may be, we must not overlook anyone on this land. The fruits of our economic growth should be enjoyed by all our people. Good numbers should translate into good lives, with no one left behind. Helping our citizens stay healthy, nurturing young talent, creating an even better environment for the younger generation, and providing greater support for young families is the government’s absolute responsibility. The Healthy Taiwan Cultivation Plan, launched this year, is improving the medical environment and system overall and will ensure higher quality healthcare services for all citizens. Also this year, we officially established the Ministry of Sports, ushering in a new era of sports for all, competitive sports, and professional sports. With this new ministry, we aim to ensure that all athletes receive full national support so that they can pursue their dreams on the global stage, winning national glory. In addition, to support our young people, we are providing free tuition for high schools and vocational schools, and an NT$35,000 annual tuition subsidy for students of private junior colleges, colleges, and universities. Our Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative, which supports young people aged 15 to 30 in pursuing their dreams abroad, is officially underway. Moreover, for renters, the government provides NT$30 billion in annual rent subsidies. Unmarried renters with an annual income below NT$626,000, families of four with a combined annual income below NT$1.641 million, and households with three generations living together with a combined annual income below NT$2.1245 million will be exempt from individual income tax. We will also provide even greater support to the young parents in our society. In addition to promoting version 2.0 of our national childcare policy for ages 0–6, with increased childcare allowances and expanded childcare subsidies, starting next year, the government will provide an increased birth subsidy of NT$100,000 per child. Nor do our senior citizens need to worry. Next year, with the launch of Long-Term Care 3.0, the government will work hard to ensure that all seniors receive more convenient, more comprehensive care. Our goal is to ensure that all to whom the nation belongs – our children, young people, parents, and grandparents – receive better care so that they can face the future with greater confidence. This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The lessons of World War II are still fresh in our memory. The ambitions of the aggressors in that conflict caused widespread devastation and loss of life. In today’s world, authoritarianism continues to expand and the international order faces severe challenges. Regional order in the Taiwan Strait, East China Sea, and South China Sea, and even the security of the entire first island chain, are under serious threat. Democratic Taiwan is a crucial link for the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific and a responsible member of the international community. As such, Taiwan will work to uphold the status quo, ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and promote the prosperous development of the region. We look forward to the day when China can take responsibility as a major power and cease its distortion of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and historical World War II documents. We also hope it will renounce the use of force or coercion to change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait so that we can jointly maintain the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific. Looking back at World War II, we see that so many experienced the suffering of war and the pain of invasion. We should learn from these lessons and ensure that the tragedies of history are never repeated. The outcomes of that conflict tell us that aggression fails, unity prevails, and that peace is won through strength. I want to declare to our citizens and the international community: At the end of this year, we will be proposing a special budget for national defense. Defense spending, as it is defined by NATO, will exceed 3 percent of GDP next year, and will reach 5 percent of GDP by 2030, showing our determination to safeguard the nation. The increase in defense spending has a purpose; it is a clear necessity to counter enemy threats and a driving force for developing our defense industries. Through our new defense budget, we aim to achieve three major goals: First, we will accelerate our building of the T-Dome, establish a rigorous air defense system in Taiwan with multi-layered defense, high-level detection, and effective interception, and weave a safety net for Taiwan to protect the lives and property of citizens. Second, we will advance the integration of high-tech and AI technologies to build a smart defense combat system, maximizing effective deterrence for our asymmetric strategy. Third, we will continue to invest in innovative defense technologies and collaborate with the military industries of advanced nations to bolster our defense industry capabilities. We will strengthen our domestic supply chains through local R&D, design, and manufacturing. This will enable Taiwan to accelerate industry upgrades, enhance the resilience of our military equipment, and boost the capacity of our defense industry. In that way, Taiwan, becoming a trusted security partner for our friends and allies, can jointly avoid the red supply chain and foster trust in defense among free and democratic countries, while building a robust line of defense to safeguard the values of freedom and democracy. We are determined to maintain peace through strength. We firmly believe that strength is not obtained through military strength alone, but must also rely on resilience throughout society. Over the past year, through the efforts of the Office of the President Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee, we have built up greater strength between the government and private sector, and between the central and local governments. We have integrated disaster prevention and defense to strengthen military-civilian cooperation. We have also continued to strengthen resilience in civilian training, energy, healthcare, information and communications networks, and finance, comprehensively enhancing our ability to respond to various crises. I want to emphasize that building societal defense and resilience requires every ounce of effort. Last month, we released our updated national public safety guide, which includes strategies for responding to various natural disasters and even extreme scenarios such as a military invasion. We plan to gradually ensure that each and every household has access to this safety guide, because only when all of society participates and learns to help themselves and one another can Taiwan develop greater resilience to face all kinds of challenges. My fellow citizens, over the past year, we have faced numerous challenges together, but the people of Taiwan never give up hope. Whenever a crisis arises, we always see numerous Taiwanese standing on the frontline, selflessly dedicating themselves to the nation they love. Just last month we saw two very moving scenes. The first was at the UN General Assembly held in New York, where many members of the overseas Taiwanese community raised money and launched a fundraising campaign to light up Times Square with advertisements to “Chip in with Taiwan,” promoting Taiwan’s participation, and advocating that we are “Better Together.” It touched the hearts of people around the world. The second was the tens of thousands of volunteers who, after the Fata’an Creek barrier lake disaster, slipped on their rain boots, shouldered their shovels, and traveled great distances to provide relief to help the affected residents of Hualien return to normal life as soon as possible.  These “superheroes with shovels” did more than dig out heavy mud and sludge to help disaster victims return home; these heroes also uncovered a light – a light of hope that warmed every heart it touched. More than that, they proved the remarkable resilience of the Taiwanese people and their resolve to protect our homeland in the face of crisis. Now, let us all thank these superheroes of disaster relief, who come from all walks of life and from all over the country, as well as friends from abroad and the military, police, firefighters, and central and local government personnel who devoted themselves to the relief effort. This spontaneous nationwide movement is absolutely unique in the world, and for that the world will remember: Taiwan, that small mountainous country, is truly compassionate, and truly great! Moving forward, I will continue to lead the country, hearts united, without fear of hardship or challenge, bravely, toward an even better tomorrow. Let’s keep going, Taiwan! Let’s keep going, Republic of China! Let’s keep going, Republic of China Taiwan! Thank you.