Office of the President Republic of China(Taiwan)

President Lai Ching-te addressed the 2025 Concordia Annual Summit via video at the invitation of the New York-based non-profit organization Concordia, delivering a speech titled “Better Together for a Safer World – Taiwan’s Role in the Age of Uncertainty.” In his remarks, President Lai said that over the 80 years since the end of World War II, humanity united to build an international order on the pillars of peace, development, and human rights. However, he noted, we face several challenges in today’s volatile international landscape, such as rising geopolitical tensions and the convergence and expansion of authoritarian regimes. The only way to resolve these crises, he emphasized, is through unity, and deepening democratic partnerships is the sole path to maintaining lasting peace. President Lai said that Taiwan is promoting values-based diplomacy and is working closely with like-minded countries. We are building economic security and supply chain resilience, he said, and collaborating with global partners to complement their capabilities. Moreover, he said, we are enhancing our national defense capabilities and whole-of-society defense and resilience. He underlined that all of this is to make Taiwan even more resilient and secure so that the global defense of democracy is even stronger. The president emphasized that there is strength in unity, and that we can achieve a bright future only by working together. Taiwan, he stated, will continue to uphold this belief, and work hand in hand with our global partners in democracy to shape a world that is more secure, more stable, and more prosperous. A transcript of President Lai’s speech follows: I am honored to once again be invited to speak at the Concordia Annual Summit. Especially in this historic year, as August 15 was the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.   The global conflict left us with the most valuable lesson: “Aggression fails, unity prevails.” This year’s UN General Assembly convened under the theme “Better Together.” This reminds us how humanity united to emerge from the shadow of war over these 80 years, and build an international order on the pillars of peace, development, and human rights. However, in today’s volatile international landscape, as geopolitical tensions rise and authoritarian regimes converge and expand, that international order is being undermined. Democratic societies are now more heavily targeted by disinformation and other forms of external interference, posing a serious challenge to global peace. These challenges are complex and diverse, and no single country can face them alone. It is clearer than ever that the only way to resolve these crises is through unity. Equally clear is that deepening democratic partnerships is the sole path to maintaining lasting peace and building a stable and prosperous world. Taiwan stands on the frontline of the first island chain in the Indo-Pacific and directly faces the threat of authoritarianism. In this uncertain era, Taiwan will continue to be a pilot for world peace and a force for global prosperity. With active strategies and firm conviction, Taiwan will work with the world, knowing that we are “Better Together.” First, we are promoting values-based diplomacy. With the values of freedom and democracy, respect for human rights, and rule of law at the base, we are working closely with like-minded countries on global challenges. While Taiwan is not included in the UN system, we have consistently proven through our actions that Taiwan is a reliable partner in the international community, and that “Taiwan Can Help.” We are willing to do our utmost for the well-being of the world. Second, we are building economic security and supply chain resilience. Taiwan plays a key role in the global semiconductor supply chain. We will collaborate with global partners to complement their capabilities with our advantages in chip manufacturing and end-to-end industrial clusters. This can do more than make the global industrial ecosystem more robust and secure – it can also ensure that our countries’ industrial chains develop more sustainably. Third, we are enhancing our national defense capabilities and whole-of-society defense and resilience. Taiwan has long faced military intimidation, information warfare, and other compound threats from China. But we are developing a solid democratic defense and continuing to invest in our self-defense. Our defense budget, aligning with NATO standards, will exceed three percent of GDP next year. By 2030, we aim for this figure to reach five percent. We are also advancing cybersecurity, combating disinformation, and enhancing our citizens’ media literacy. This way, we can find common ground among diverse opinions through democratic discourse. Our position is clear – to make Taiwan even more resilient and secure so that the global defense of democracy is even stronger. We firmly believe that there is strength in unity, and that we can achieve a bright future only by working together. Taiwan will continue to uphold this belief, and work hand in hand with our global partners in democracy to shape a world that is more secure, more stable, and more prosperous. I thank Concordia once again for the invitation, and wish everyone a successful summit. Thank you. Concordia organizes its annual summit outside the UN headquarters during each year’s General Debate of the UNGA, inviting world leaders and top private sector representatives to seek solutions to global and regional challenges that are highly valued by the UN community. Among those who addressed this year’s summit were President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic, President Nikos Christodoulides of the Republic of Cyprus, President Vahagn Khachaturyan of Armenia, President Alar Karis of the Republic of Estonia, and former President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović of the Republic of Croatia.

On the afternoon of September 16, President Lai Ching-te met with Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Chairman Sumi Shuzo. In remarks, President Lai expressed confidence that Taiwan-Japan relations will flourish even more under the leadership of Chairman Sumi, with his extensive experience and foresight. The president also expressed hoped that Taiwan and Japan will continue to deepen exchanges and cooperation and contribute even more to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I want to congratulate Chairman Sumi on assuming his position at the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association this June. I also welcome him on his first visit to Taiwan since taking office and wish him a fruitful and successful trip. I commend Chairman Sumi for taking to heart one of the teachings of Laozi (老子) from the Tao Te Ching (道德經), that “the highest good is like water.” I believe he will bring this spirit to his leadership of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association and help deepen the friendship between our two countries in many areas. If leaders around the world could also embrace this principle in managing relations with neighboring countries, I am confident that world peace would naturally follow. The peoples of Taiwan and Japan act with goodwill and support each other like family. The Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association and the Taiwan-Japan Relations Association have long played key roles in bilateral exchanges, overcoming various difficulties and limitations together. The friendship between Taiwan and Japan thus stands as a model of bilateral relations for the world. Chairman Sumi has been active in Japan’s business community for many years, holding numerous important positions and possessing extensive experience and foresight. Taiwan-Japan relations will surely flourish even more under his outstanding leadership. I hope we can continue deepening exchanges and cooperation, ushering in a new era. Whether in economic security, technological innovation, culture and tourism, youth exchanges, or advancing an economic partnership agreement between Taiwan and Japan, I hope to work closely with Chairman Sumi to contribute even more to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. Once again, I want to thank the Japanese government for consistently reiterating the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait to the international community and opposing any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by use of force. I am also thankful for Japan’s longstanding support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization and World Health Organization. These positions and actions not only demonstrate Japan’s firm commitment to regional peace, but are also deeply inspiring to Taiwan. Lastly, I hope the friendship between our two countries will continue to grow stronger and closer, reaching even greater heights. Chairman Sumi then delivered remarks, mentioning that before he began his term as chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, he had already engaged in many business exchanges with Taiwan. He said he hopes to further promote development between Japan and Taiwan across a wide range of sectors. Chairman Sumi stated that Taiwan and Japan both face highly unstable international circumstances, including countries attempting to unilaterally change the status quo by use of force or intimidation, and significant impacts on the development of international trade. Pointing out that the fundamental and universal values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law have also been impacted, the chairman said that global affairs are not simply black and white and that we should work towards building a more diverse and inclusive international society. He said that Japan and Taiwan, grounded in these shared universal values, have collaborated closely to this day, and that both emphasize a spirit of harmony and coordination. He expressed hope that this conviction can extend to other regions of the world. Chairman Sumi also pointed out that Taiwan and Japan deal with many similar difficulties and issues, such as complex international trade interactions, declining birthrates, aging populations, labor shortages, pension and welfare systems, social development, and the establishment of comprehensive healthcare systems. Both countries, he added, also frequently face natural disasters like typhoons and earthquakes, highlighting the need for more robust disaster prevention systems, effective responses to global warming, and a stable energy supply. Chairman Sumi expressed hope of strengthening cooperation on these issues, sharing expertise, and working together to find solutions. Referencing the association’s latest survey on Taiwanese public perception of Japan, Chairman Sumi said that 76 percent of Taiwanese named Japan as their favorite country. He added that the number of Taiwanese tourist visits to Japan has exceeded six million, reflecting our deep and solidly-based friendship. Chairman Sumi expressed his belief that bilateral relations will continue to deepen and pledged during his chairmanship to fully support further development of Taiwan-Japan relations. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki.  

On the afternoon of September 12, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belize to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Katherine Vanessa Meighan. In remarks, President Lai expressed hope that with Ambassador Meighan’s experience and vision, our two countries will achieve further progress in such areas as educational exchanges, gender equality, and economic and trade cooperation, reaching new milestones in our bilateral ties. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I extend my sincerest welcome. Ambassador Meighan is a dear and longstanding friend of Taiwan. She is a distinguished alumna of National Chengchi University, and since completing her studies, she has contributed greatly to Belize’s business community. Her leadership as president of the Rotary Club of Belize and the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry has earned her high regard. In recent years, Ambassador Meighan has engaged closely with the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Belize. In addition to regularly participating in embassy events, she has also hosted numerous trade and investment missions from Taiwan, making considerable contributions to the advancement of economic and trade exchanges between our two nations. Ambassador Meighan has also long endeavored to enhance women’s empowerment and promote the development of micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises. These goals align closely with Taiwan’s policy direction. I firmly believe that, with Ambassador Meighan’s experience and vision, our two countries will achieve further progress in such areas as educational exchanges, gender equality, and economic and trade cooperation. Next month, we will mark 36 years of diplomatic relations between our nations. We are delighted to have seen significant growth in economic and trade exchanges since the implementation of the Taiwan-Belize Economic Cooperation Agreement. In July, Taiwan also announced the opening of its market to imports of frozen whiteleg shrimp from Belize. I am confident that, through joint efforts, our economic, trade, and investment ties will continue to strengthen. I have met and engaged with Prime Minister John Briceño on several occasions and greatly admire his leadership and vision. I look forward to the opportunity to visit Belize and witness firsthand the results of our nations’ collaboration across all domains. In closing, I once again extend a warm welcome to Ambassador Meighan. Her return to Taiwan for this post demonstrates the value the Belizean government places upon the diplomatic alliance between our countries. I firmly believe that going forward, we can work hand in hand to usher in new developments, new achievements, and new milestones in our bilateral ties.  Ambassador Meighan then delivered remarks, saying that her pursuit of higher learning in Taiwan 20 years ago reminds her that education is a gift that multiplies opportunities for communities and nations. She added that she is grateful for the continued partnership that Taiwan extends to Belize and Caribbean and Latin American nations, a partnership grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and steadfast commitment to development and human potential. Ambassador Meighan indicated that our bilateral relationship stands as a testament of principled democracy: purposeful, resilient, and anchored in democratic ideals. Taiwan’s investments in Belize, such as those in education, health, infrastructure, and technology, she said, have not only advanced our nations’ development goals, but have strengthened the fabric of our people-to-people ties. The ambassador then stated that her return as Belize’s representative is a renewal of that trust and a pledge to deepen collaboration, adding that she is committed to broadening cooperation beyond policy to the cultural and educational exchanges that nurture understanding and friendship.  Ambassador Meighan affirmed Belize’s unwavering support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international fora, stating that she invites continued dialogue on how we can translate these shared values into tangible benefits for our families, our businesses, and our nations. The ambassador expressed hope that the friendship between Belize and Taiwan will continue to stand as a beacon, showing that principled collaboration, mutual respect, and enduring goodwill can propel our nations toward a future of peace, prosperity, and shared purpose for generations to come. She then thanked President Lai for his leadership and the enduring friendship between our countries, also expressing hope that together, we can nurture a world in which nations rise by lifting one another up, and where the ties that bind Belize and Taiwan serve as a model for a more cooperative and harmonious global community.  

On the morning of September 12, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Paraguay to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Darío Filártiga Ruiz Díaz. In remarks, President Lai welcomed the ambassador to his new post in Taiwan, noting it marks a new chapter in bilateral relations between Taiwan and Paraguay. The president also emphasized that our two countries have strong bonds and engage in close cooperation in democratic values, economic collaboration, education and culture, as well as social welfare and people’s livelihoods. He expressed hope for renewed momentum in our prosperous partnership, resulting in even more fruitful cooperation and mutual benefits. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I sincerely welcome Ambassador Filártiga to his new post in Taiwan. He has not only been entrusted with this important mission by President Santiago Peña Palacios, but has also received strong bipartisan support from the Paraguayan Senate. This demonstrates the importance that Paraguay attaches to the friendship between our two countries. I am confident that the ambassador’s assignment will mark a new chapter in our bilateral relations. Ambassador Filártiga has longstanding ties with Taiwan. He previously served as a ministerial political advisor to former President Horacio Cartes and accompanied him on three visits to Taiwan. Ambassador Filártiga is also highly knowledgeable in regional affairs. Given his outstanding abilities, I am confident that our bilateral cooperation and friendship will stand as a model for the world. Taiwan and Paraguay are like two beacons of democracy on opposite ends of the globe, illuminating each other. Our two countries have strong bonds and engage in close cooperation in democratic values, economic collaboration, education and culture, as well as social welfare and people’s livelihoods. In education, we jointly established the Taiwan-Paraguay Polytechnic University, which trains professionals in fields like electromechanical engineering and information technology, providing Paraguay with a stronger foundation for developing its high-tech industries. As for economic and trade cooperation, bilateral trade has accelerated since the Taiwan-Paraguay economic cooperation agreement entered into force in 2018. Taiwan has become an important export market for Paraguayan pork, beef, and sesame, mutually benefiting both countries. Additionally, joint initiatives like the Taiwan-Paraguay Smart Technology Park, our electric bus pilot program, and the Health Information Management Efficiency Enhancement Project have significantly enhanced the quality of life of citizens and are the fruits of our dedicated, long-term collaboration. Once again, I congratulate Ambassador Filártiga on his new assignment and look forward to his service bringing renewed momentum to our prosperous partnership, resulting in even more fruitful cooperation and mutual benefits. I hope to continue working side by side to contribute more to democracy, peace, and prosperity around the world. Ambassador Filártiga then delivered remarks, saying it is an honor to be appointed ambassador of Paraguay to Taiwan, as it carries the expectations and responsibilities of his country, government, people, and family. He noted that the appointment also recognizes his years of dedicated work in fostering Taiwan-Paraguay relations. He extended the regards and greetings of President Peña and former President Cartes, adding that President Peña looks forward to President Lai’s next official visit to Paraguay. Ambassador Filártiga noted that the government of Paraguay aims to strengthen bilateral relations with its allies, and that the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the United States are key partners in jointly addressing important challenges. He said that Taiwan is an important ally and economic partner of Paraguay, as it plays a crucial role in high-tech industries and global development, and occupies a leading position in the semiconductor sector. He also highly commended Taiwan’s quality higher education system and its commitment and achievements in sustainable economic development. Ambassador Filártiga thanked Taiwan for strongly supporting several of Paraguay’s key development initiatives, which have significantly enhanced the quality of life for the people of Paraguay and positioned the country as an innovation hub for the region and beyond. He also emphasized that Paraguay has long advocated in international venues for the international standing of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and its meaningful participation in all organizations. He stated this is a central principle for the government of Paraguay and should be a shared goal of all nations that respect freedom, democracy, and human rights, as it reflects the fundamental values of safeguarding human dignity and advancing development. Ambassador Filártiga noted that Paraguay has abundant natural resources, a favorable climate, fertile land, and abundant water resources. The country also boasts clean renewable energy and produces high-quality livestock and staple crops, such as rice. He expressed hope for further opportunities to increase Paraguayan exports to Taiwan and looked forward to Taiwanese enterprises investing and establishing operations in Paraguay in the spirit of mutual benefit and cooperation. Ambassador Filártiga stated that the brotherly ties between Paraguay and Taiwan are a treasured bond worth protecting and strengthening. He further noted that over the past 68 years, the solid diplomatic relationship between our two countries has become one of mutual trust, respect, and assistance, benefiting the peoples of both nations. In closing, he reiterated the commitment of both the government of Paraguay and President Peña to consolidate bilateral relations. He affirmed their continued support for Taiwan’s participation in international organizations, with the hope of jointly building a prosperous and sustainable future.

On the morning of September 9, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Haiti to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Roudy Stanley Penn. In remarks, President Lai welcomed the ambassador to his new post and thanked the government of Haiti for its longstanding support and advocacy for Taiwan. The president also stated that joint efforts between our two countries have produced increasingly fruitful results across a range of collaborative initiatives. He expressed hope that we will continue to deepen our friendship, building on the strong existing foundation of our cooperation. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a great pleasure to receive the credentials of Ambassador Penn. Next April marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. On behalf of the government and all people of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I sincerely welcome Ambassador Penn back to Taiwan as we celebrate this milestone together. Ambassador Penn is a young and promising leader with extensive experience in the public and private sectors. He showed exceptional capability during his first term as ambassador to Taiwan. His reappointment reflects the Haitian government’s recognition of his service and its commitment to the bilateral relationship between our countries. With Ambassador Penn’s assistance, I believe that Taiwan and Haiti will continue to deepen our cooperation in various fields. When I met with Ambassador Penn at the Presidential Office last May, he noted that Taiwan and Haiti’s cooperation in agriculture, energy, culture, and technology has brought substantial benefits to our peoples, demonstrating the importance of our bilateral partnership. As Ambassador Penn said, our joint efforts have increasingly produced fruitful results and deepened our friendship. Initiatives including the introduction of solar-powered irrigation pumps, the Rice Production Enhancement Project, and the Vegetable and Fruit Cultivation Development Project have laid the groundwork for lasting food security in Haiti. Furthermore, Taiwan has significantly increased the number of scholarships available to Haitian students this year, hoping to foster even more talent and promote student exchanges between our countries. I want to thank the government of Haiti for its longstanding support and unwavering advocacy for Taiwan. This year, Haiti’s Ministry of Public Health and Population voiced support for Taiwan at the World Health Organization (WHO)’s Executive Board meeting and the World Health Assembly. Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste, who visited Taiwan two months ago, also sent a letter to the director-general of the WHO on Taiwan’s behalf, reflecting the spirit of true friendship. Once again, I sincerely welcome Ambassador Penn and wish him all the best in his work. I hope that Taiwan and Haiti will continue to deepen our friendship, building on the strong existing foundation of our cooperation, as well as our bonds of mutual trust and respect. Ambassador Penn then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor to present President Lai with his credentials and extending greetings on behalf of the Transitional Presidential Council, the government, and the people of Haiti. He also noted that it is an honor to once again serve as the ambassador of Haiti to Taiwan, and expressed his deep admiration for Taiwan’s journey, history, and bold aspiration. Ambassador Penn reiterated the Haitian government’s strong determination to strengthen and develop friendly and cooperative relations between our two countries. He affirmed that through joint cooperation, bilateral ties can reach new heights and mutually benefit our peoples. Ambassador Penn noted that next year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Haiti and Taiwan, presenting an excellent opportunity to give renewed momentum to bilateral cooperation and strengthen friendly ties. He expressed hope to work with President Lai and the government of Taiwan to further deepen the friendship between our two countries’ peoples.  

On the morning of August 1, President Lai Ching-te delivered remarks at the Presidential Office on the response to the reciprocal tariff policy of the United States. President Lai explained that technical consultations with the US are finished, but as the final concluding meeting has not yet taken place, 20 percent has been set for Taiwan as an interim tariff rate. The president said that Taiwan will work towards a more favorable and reasonable rate in the subsequent negotiations, and that the US has expressed its willingness to continue talks. He added that a support plan for Taiwan’s export supply chain in response to US tariffs has been proposed to assist small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in responding to the US tariff policy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: Earlier today, the US government informed our lead negotiator, Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君), that an interim tariff rate for Taiwan has been set at 20 percent. Since April 2, when the US introduced its new tariff policy targeting countries worldwide, Taiwan has actively engaged in four in-person rounds of negotiation and multiple discussions over videoconference with the US government. Throughout the process, both sides have negotiated in good faith based on the shared goal of addressing the trade deficit between Taiwan and the US and creating complementary and mutually beneficial outcomes. Although we have achieved an interim reduction in the tariff rate from 32 percent to 20 percent at this point in the negotiations, 20 percent was never our goal. We hope to work towards a more favorable and reasonable rate for Taiwan in the subsequent negotiations, and the US has expressed its willingness to continue talks. We have finished technical consultations, but as the final concluding meeting has not yet taken place, a final tariff rate has not yet been reached. This is the reason for the setting of an interim tariff rate. I extend my sincere gratitude to Vice Premier Cheng and Minister without Portfolio of the Executive Yuan Yang Jen-ni (楊珍妮) for working tirelessly over the past few months leading the negotiation team, remaining on call whether in Taiwan or the US. From here in Taiwan I, along with Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu (吳釗燮), Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), and Secretary-General Pan Men-an (潘孟安), have also provided full support to our negotiating team in the US. Regardless of the final tariff rate, Taiwan’s industries will inevitably be impacted. I am deeply grateful to Premier Cho for proposing on April 4 a support plan for Taiwan’s export supply chain in response to US tariffs, and for holding over 20 industry consultation sessions. The special budget has also been increased from NT$88 billion to NT$93 billion. This special act has already been submitted to the Legislative Yuan and passed review. I hope that the Executive Yuan will promptly submit the budget request for legislative review so that the special budget can be implemented as soon as possible to assist SMEs in responding to this new US tariff policy.