Office of the President Republic of China(Taiwan)

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

On the morning of December 19, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the Brookings Institution. In remarks, President Lai stated that Taiwan is situated at a crucial point in the first island chain, standing on the frontline of a network of island democracies, and will continue to implement the Four Pillars of Peace action plan to ensure Taiwan’s security and peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. The president said that moving ahead through a complex global landscape, Taiwan looks forward to cooperating with the United States and other democracies, serving as a force for good, and promoting global democracy and prosperity. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I would first like to wish Brookings Institution President Cecilia Rouse, who is visiting Taiwan for the first time, a very happy birthday. Thank you for leading a delegation to Taiwan, especially on such a special day, and I hope this visit is a great success. I would also like to welcome back Vice President Suzanne Maloney, who visited Taiwan in August, and thank John L. Thornton China Center Director Ryan Hass for his longstanding support for Taiwan. The Brookings Institution is a prominent think tank, and the research it contributes is not only greatly utilized in the US government, but also deeply impacts the international political and economic landscape. We hope that President Rouse’s visit will help Taiwan continue to enjoy support from your institution. Global strategy has become increasingly complex in recent years. Authoritarian regimes such as China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran continue to converge. And their coordinated actions in various regions have grown more aggressive, showing that expanding authoritarianism poses challenges shared by the entire world. Therefore, we must stand together.  China continues to increase its pressure on Taiwan through military activities in an attempt to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. We wholeheartedly thank the US and other democracies for showing support for democratic Taiwan and for publicly expressing concern over China’s actions, which disrupt peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan is situated at a crucial point in the first island chain, standing on the frontline of a network of island democracies. We will continue to implement the Four Pillars of Peace action plan to ensure Taiwan’s security and peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. We will continue to strengthen our national defense, whether it is through boosting our self-sufficiency in national defense or through external military procurement. We will also continue to strengthen our economic resilience and stand together with the democratic community to demonstrate the strength of deterrence, prevent war, and achieve peace through strength. On the condition of parity and dignity, Taiwan is also willing to conduct exchanges and cooperate with China to promote peaceful development.  Last week, the first agreement under the Taiwan-US Initiative on 21st-Century Trade officially came into effect, marking a significant milestone in bilateral trade and economic relations. And the fruitful outcomes that Taiwan and the US are creating are not only limited to this domain, but also extend to such areas as security, education, and culture. Moving ahead through a complex global landscape, we look forward to cooperating with the US and other democracies, serving as a force for good, and promoting global democracy and prosperity. President Rouse then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for sharing his insights with the delegation, and for the birthday wishes. She indicated that she is visiting Taiwan and Japan as part of her first major overseas trip as president of the Brookings Institution, and that this decision reflects Taiwan’s important role as a central actor in the global economy, a close partner of the US, and a key factor in the preservation of peace and stability in Asia. President Rouse said that this visit comes at a time of transition in the US, as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to office on January 20. While America’s political leadership changes every four years, she said, the shared interests and values that bind our two peoples together endure. The president said that through their meeting with President Lai and other leaders in Taiwan, the delegation looks forward to better understanding perspectives from Taiwan on strengthening US-Taiwan relations and supporting Taiwan’s peace and prosperity. These insights, she said, will strengthen their research in keeping with the Brookings Institution’s longstanding tradition of nonpartisanship and independence. To close, President Rouse thanked President Lai once again for welcoming the delegation.  

On the morning of December 10, President Lai Ching-te met with a parliamentary delegation led by Deputy Senate Marshal Michał Kamiński of the Republic of Poland. In remarks, President Lai thanked the Parliament of Poland for its strong and longstanding support for Taiwan regardless of party affiliation. He also stated that Taiwan, as a responsible member of the international community, is committed to maintaining regional peace and stability, and will continue to deepen the partnership with Poland to jointly safeguard the values of freedom and democracy. In the future, he stated, Taiwan will continue to deepen cooperation in many areas and create new milestones in Taiwan-Poland relations. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, I want to offer a warm welcome to Deputy Senate Marshal Kamiński and his delegation. This is the first time the Parliament of Poland has organized a delegation to visit Taiwan since the election in mid-October last year. The delegation includes six members of various parties from the Polish-Taiwanese Parliamentarian Group, which is a significant factor in promoting the development of Taiwan-Poland relations. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to thank you all for supporting Taiwan through action. This is Deputy Senate Marshal Kamiński’s third visit to Taiwan. He has not only long paid close attention to cross-strait issues, but has also shown an admirable opposition to authoritarianism and strong support for democratic Taiwan. With Deputy Senate Marshal Kamiński’s support, for example, in July of 2022 the Polish Senate’s Foreign and European Union Affairs Committee and its Social Policy and Health Committee passed a resolution supporting Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organization. Last year and this year, with the help of Chair Krzysztof Truskolaski, the Polish-Taiwanese Parliamentarian Group issued a joint statement supporting Taiwan’s international participation. I want to express sincere gratitude to the Parliament of Poland for its strong and longstanding support for Taiwan regardless of party affiliation, and for letting the international community see Taiwan’s ability and determination to actively contribute to the world. Today is Human Rights Day. In the past, Taiwan and Poland have both fought against authoritarianism and pursued democracy and freedom. We are now also facing the challenge of expanding authoritarianism. As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan is committed to maintaining regional peace and stability, and we will continue to deepen our partnership with Poland to jointly safeguard the values of freedom and democracy. In March of this year, Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao visited Poland in the capacity of vice president-elect. I want to thank Deputy Senate Marshal Kamiński and many of our distinguished guests here today for attending a luncheon with the vice president and enhancing Taiwan-Poland bilateral exchanges. Last month, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) led nearly 30 representatives from Taiwan vendors to Poland to participate in the Polish-Taiwanese Economic Cooperation Forum and also announced that bilateral business exchanges between Taiwan and Poland will be strengthened through codeshare flights. In the future, Taiwan and Poland will continue to deepen cooperation in many areas and create new milestones in bilateral relations. Once again, I welcome the delegation led by Deputy Senate Marshal Kamiński to Taiwan. I wish all of our distinguished guests a smooth and successful trip. Deputy Senate Marshal Kamiński then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his time. He pointed out that the Polish language has a beautiful term, “solidarność” (solidarity), which is also a gift that Poland has given to the world. He noted that the delegation for this trip represents the members of the parliament chosen through free and democratic elections and the people of Poland. He emphasized that the solidarity of representatives who are chosen just as they are in Taiwan is not only the most important similarity between Poland and Taiwan, but also reflects the friendship and values that we share. The ultimate goal is to maintain global stability and peace, he said, and in other words, Poland and Taiwan share a common desire for core values based on peace and order. Deputy Senate Marshal Kamiński said that it is precisely because Poland and Taiwan share universal values of freedom, democracy, and peace that, in addition to political cooperation, the two sides also cooperate in other areas. Taiwan-Poland economic, trade, and cultural cooperation have also grown increasingly close, he added. Poland welcomes investment from Taiwan, he said, and he believes that ties will be even closer in the future. Through codeshare flights, he pointed out, flight services will be provided between Taiwan and Poland, which is also an important milestone in Taiwan-Poland relations. Deputy Senate Marshal Kamiński said that Taiwan and Poland are geographically far apart and the delegation has traveled a long way to Taiwan, so they were deeply touched by the warm reception they received here, for which they would like to once again express their sincere gratitude. The visiting delegation also included Polish-Taiwanese Parliamentarian Group Deputy Chair Beata Małecka-Libera and group members Andrzej Gawron, Konrad Frysztak, Krzysztof Lipiec, and Łukasz Osmalak of the Polish Sejm (lower house of parliament). The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Polish Office in Taipei Director Cyryl Kozaczewki.

On the morning of December 9, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt. In remarks, President Lai thanked Governor Stitt and the Oklahoma Legislature for their high regard for Taiwan and support for its international participation. The president stated that deepening Taiwan-United States relations is not only about meeting one another’s needs in terms of economics, trade, investment, or industrial supply chain cooperation; it is also about jointly upholding the values of freedom and democracy. Looking ahead, he said, we hope to further enhance exchanges in such fields as energy, trade, and bilateral investment, emphasizing that together, we can open up excellent prospects and work hand in hand to promote democracy, peace, and prosperity. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I warmly welcome Governor Stitt, who has chosen Taiwan as the first stop on his maiden trip to Asia. I also hope that this visit will drive even closer cooperation in Taiwan and Oklahoma’s economic and trade partnership. Last week, I visited diplomatic allies the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau and made transit stops in Hawaii and Guam. I am very grateful to the US government for the assistance it lent. It is a great delight to be able to welcome good friends from the United States to the Presidential Office so soon after returning home.   Taiwan and Oklahoma signed a sister-state agreement in 1980, nearly 45 years ago. In May this year, the Oklahoma Legislature passed a resolution recognizing the friendly ties between Oklahoma and Taiwan, celebrating the 45th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act, and supporting Taiwan’s international participation. I want to thank Governor Stitt and the Oklahoma Legislature for their high regard and support for Taiwan.   Thanks to Governor Stitt’s backing, Taiwan and Oklahoma enjoy close cooperation across a range of fields. Last year, for example, Taiwan and the Oklahoma State Department of Education renewed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on education cooperation. This September, an Oklahoman delegation visited Taiwan to strengthen cooperation in the drone industry. During this trip, Governor Stitt will sign an agreement on economic, energy, and trade cooperation with the Ministry of Economic Affairs. These examples demonstrate that, although we are some 12,000 kilometers apart, friendship and exchanges between Taiwan and Oklahoma cannot be restrained by distance. I would also like to declare our admiration for Governor Stitt’s firm position on resisting expanding authoritarianism. I believe all of our distinguished guests would agree that deepening Taiwan-US relations is not only about meeting one another’s needs in terms of economic, trade, investment, or industrial supply chain cooperation; it is also about jointly upholding the values of freedom and democracy. Looking ahead, we hope to further enhance exchanges in such fields as energy, trade, and bilateral investment. Together, we can open up excellent prospects and work hand in hand to promote democracy, peace, and prosperity.  In closing, I want to thank Governor Stitt and our distinguished guests for their visit. Oklahoma is a place of great beauty, with its abundance of natural scenery and human culture. I also invite you all to visit Taiwan again in the future and see some of our other cities. You can always be sure of a very warm reception. In the meantime, I wish you all a fruitful trip. Governor Stitt then delivered remarks, thanking President Lai for the honor to be here with him and for the warm welcome. He noted that he is pleased to be here to strengthen the bonds between Oklahoma and Taiwan, emphasizing that he cannot wait to go back and tell Oklahomans about coming to Taiwan. He said that Taiwan is an economic success story, pointing out that its high-tech economy, research and development, and electronics and metal manufacturing sectors are well known, not only to Oklahoma but well respected all around the world.  Governor Stitt said that Taiwan is one of Oklahoma’s biggest trading partners, which has been beneficial for both of us. Oklahoma and Taiwan share a sister-state relationship established in 1980, he said, and that relationship has resulted in numerous mutually beneficial exchanges among government, businesses, and culture. In April this year, he remarked, he was delighted to host Taiwan representatives to the US and a delegation of industry representatives to Oklahoma to discuss collaboration in the aerospace sector. Governor Stitt also remarked that in October this year a delegation of drone and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) companies from Oklahoma visited Taiwan to explore ways to partner with Taiwanese companies. He stated that an MOU was signed by several companies, and that Oklahoma and Taiwan are now cooperating to strengthen supply chains. He noted that the aerospace sector in Oklahoma, which they are so proud of, is also a tech innovation hub specializing in autonomous technologies, which he believes is very important to Taiwan.  The governor said that they look forward to finding further ways to collaborate with Taiwan in the autonomous UAS technologies sector. Today, he stated, he is honored to sign this MOU between Taiwan and the state of Oklahoma to further strengthen our cooperation around aerospace, drones and UAS, energy, and the critical mineral supply chain. He said that they look forward to working together to increase trade and investment opportunities and bring prosperity to the people of Taiwan and Oklahoma.  The delegation also included Senior Advisor and Director of the Washington, D.C. Office for the Governor of Oklahoma Christina Lepore.

On the evening of December 6, President Lai Ching-te returned to Taiwan after the conclusion of his state visits to the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and the Republic of Palau, and delivered remarks on his visit at Taoyuan International Airport. In remarks, President Lai reported on the achievements of the trip, which included deepening of friendships with diplomatic allies, the launch of a new era of values-based diplomacy, and the consolidation of overseas support for Taiwan. The president emphasized that so long as we defend democracy, deepen democracy, and uphold the universal values of democracy as we engage with other countries around the world, we can certainly garner more support, not only defending Taiwan, but also maintaining regional peace and stability. In remarks, President Lai first told the people of Taiwan that everyone in the delegation, including the members of the traveling press corps, all returned home safely, and that the seven-day, six-night trip is now complete. He again thanked the government of the United States for providing assistance based on the principles of safety, dignity, comfort, and convenience, which helped the trip proceed smoothly and successfully. President Lai thanked national security and diplomatic staff for their careful advance arrangements and detailed communications, mentioning in particular the details of the visit worked out by front-line personnel from the overseas representative offices and thanking them for the hard work. He also thanked the China Airlines crew members for providing safe and comfortable services that enabled the delegation to rest well despite the packed schedule. The president then thanked the members of the traveling press corps for updating Taiwan on the trip’s latest news, working late into the night and sometimes going as long as 40 hours without sleeping, which was impressive. The president expressed hope that the press corps members’ employers would provide appropriate rewards and said he looked forward to traveling with the press corps again to visit Taiwan’s allies in the future. President Lai reported to the people of Taiwan on the achievements of the trip. The first, he said, is that we deepened friendships with diplomatic allies. The delegation received enthusiastic welcomes from the people of the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau. President Lai thanked President Hilda C. Heine of the Marshall Islands, Prime Minister Feleti Teo of Tuvalu, and President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. of Palau for their warm hospitality and staunch support for Taiwan. He noted that Taiwan shares an Austronesian cultural heritage with those three countries, and that during the trip he strongly felt that it makes us all like family. Second, said the president, is that we have launched a new era of values-based diplomacy. During this trip, he said, he saw that cooperation between Taiwan and the three diplomatic allies had yielded tangible results in such areas as public health, food security, climate change, digital transformation, and maritime security. He expressed confidence that these results would further consolidate friendships with diplomatic allies. We are all aware, and international news organizations have published many reports, he said, that these diplomatic allies are bravely resisting the threats and enticements of authoritarian actors. These countries bravely and firmly support the universal values of democracy, which is an important reason why these three diplomatic allies stand unwaveringly with us. The president mentioned that during the trip his delegation and the governors and legislatures of Hawaii and Guam affirmed their shared commitment to democracy. He expressed his belief that democracy is Taiwan’s most precious asset, one that we have only through the lifelong devotion of a succession of democracy activists. Nationwide solidarity, he said, has made Taiwan a beacon for democracy in Asia. Moving forward, he added, we will continue to use the universal values of democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights to further engage in diplomacy with the world’s democracies. He emphasized that in this way we can achieve mutually beneficial situations with prosperity and development for all sides while we jointly combat expanding authoritarianism. And third, the president said, is that we have consolidated overseas support for Taiwan. He thanked all the overseas community members, not only those living in the places he visited, but also those who traveled from other locations to where his delegation was visiting. Everyone gathered together and cheered for Taiwan, he said, and expressed their intent to contribute even more for Taiwan. As president, he said that he is moved by this support and that he is proud of the overseas community. President Lai then thanked the US, including the governor of Guam for inviting him and his delegation to breakfast, when the national anthems of Taiwan and the US were both played and sung at the governor’s house, clearly expressing strong support for Taiwan. Noting that the Guam Legislature had passed resolutions backing Taiwan for four consecutive years, the president said he was honored to receive a copy of the most recent one on behalf of the people of Taiwan. President Lai also thanked the governor of Hawaii for enthusiastically supporting his delegation. The Hawaiian State Legislature, he said, presented him a gift of the US flag and the Hawaii state flag, which he accepted on behalf of the people of Taiwan. This shows, he remarked, that not only do our diplomatic allies stand firmly with us, but that in our partner the US, Taiwan enjoys bipartisan support in Congress as well as strong support at the local level in such places as Hawaii and Guam. He emphasized that all of this shows that Taiwan has successfully consolidated overseas support for Taiwan. President Lai said that Taiwan will continue doing all it can, adding that “the virtuous never stand alone.” So long as we defend democracy, deepen democracy, and uphold the universal values of democracy as we engage with other countries around the world, we can certainly garner more support, not only defending Taiwan, he emphasized, but also maintaining regional peace and stability. In closing, the president thanked the national security team, led by National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu (吳釗燮), and the Executive Yuan team, led by Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), for professionally attending to many domestic and international issues during his trip, ensuring the stability of our society and keeping the government running smoothly. Belizean Ambassador Candice Augusta Pitts, in her capacity as secretary-general of the diplomatic corps, Palauan Ambassador David Adams Orrukem, and Tuvaluan Charge d’Affaires a.i. Silafaga Lalua O’Brien were present at the airport to welcome the president upon his return.

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