Office of the President Republic of China(Taiwan)

On the afternoon of October 21, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee. In remarks, President Lai said that Taiwan sees Tennessee as an important site for its global deployment and that the two sides have signed a memorandum of understanding on economic and trade cooperation. The president noted that Taiwan’s tech industry has already established AI server manufacturing facilities in Tennessee, with production capacity continuing to expand. Welcoming Governor Lee’s decision to set up a Tennessee office in Taiwan, the president expressed hope that this will open up more opportunities for cooperation in many areas, while promoting industrial upgrading, and further consolidating the Taiwan-US partnership. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to begin by extending a warm welcome to Governor Lee and Tennessee First Lady Maria Lee, who are visiting Taiwan for the first time. I am sure that their trip will help deepen the partnership between Taiwan and Tennessee and open a new chapter in bilateral cooperation. Tennessee serves as a key industrial hub in the United States. Offering an excellent economic and trade environment, the state has attracted local investment and development from many multinationals and demonstrated strong economic momentum in recent years. As a longstanding and trustworthy trading partner of the US, Taiwan sees Tennessee as an important site for its global deployment. At present, Taiwan’s tech industry has already established AI server manufacturing facilities in Tennessee, with production capacity continuing to expand. We look forward to working with the US to build more secure, resilient, and competitive supply chains. This will not only help the US reindustrialize and become a global AI hub, but also encourage industrial growth on both sides. At the same time, Taiwan is sparing no effort to bolster such key industries as semiconductors, AI, national defense, security and surveillance, and next-generation communications. Across these areas, we aspire to link with Tennessee’s strong production and innovation capacity so as to further broaden the prospects for Taiwan-US cooperation. I would like to take this opportunity to especially thank Governor Lee and the Tennessee General Assembly for their long-term support for Taiwan’s international participation. In particular, Governor Lee has signed Taiwan-friendly resolutions in five consecutive years and has encouraged the deepening of exchanges and cooperation between Taiwan and Tennessee in many domains, actively advancing the development of bilateral relations. During Governor Lee’s visit, Taiwan and Tennessee have also signed a memorandum of understanding on economic and trade cooperation. This will help open up more opportunities for bilateral cooperation in such areas as high-tech manufacturing, electric vehicles, new energy, and innovation and R&D. This will not only promote industrial upgrading, but also further consolidate the Taiwan-US partnership. Furthermore, we welcome Governor Lee’s decision to set up a Tennessee office in Taiwan. Looking ahead, I am confident that bilateral exchanges will grow even closer and new milestones will continue to be set. Governor Lee then delivered remarks, first saying that his delegation is delighted to be in Taiwan and that they have been greeted with kindness and generosity. He mentioned that Tennessee has, through legislative procedure and signed proclamations by the governor, recognized the importance of Taiwan in the world and of the strategic partnership between Taiwan and the state of Tennessee. The governor noted that, traveling in Taiwan, it has become evident to him that the importance of Taiwan in the globe, economically and as a business leader, is increasing rapidly, and that the world and the US recognize the importance of Taiwan as a strategic partner to the US. He added that they also recognize that Taiwan’s economy and business are growing exponentially, and for that reason Tennessee sees an incredible opportunity in expanding the partnerships that they have with companies from Taiwan choosing to invest in the state of Tennessee. Governor Lee said that because of their great desire to strengthen the partnership and the bonds between Taiwan and Tennessee, they have signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and made the commitment to open an office in Taiwan so that they can better understand the needs of the companies in Taiwan when they come to Tennessee.  Governor Lee highlighted that one of the most valuable assets that companies from Taiwan bring to the people of Tennessee is the culture of Taiwan, noting how that enhances the culture of Tennessee. He said that they look forward to not only increased economic partnerships but to the partnership of cultures as the people of Taiwan and Tennessee become accustomed to each other.

On October 21, Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) stated that President Lai Ching-te, on behalf of the government and people of Taiwan, sincerely congratulates Member of the Japanese House of Representatives and new Liberal Democratic Party President Takaichi Sanae on her election as Japan’s 104th prime minister at an extraordinary National Diet session. Spokesperson Kuo also stated that President Lai wishes the Japanese government led by Prime Minister Takaichi success in implementing all its policy objectives and for the nation to continue to develop and prosper. The president also expressed hope that Taiwan and Japan will continue to enhance the friendship while working together to advance the well-being of both peoples. Spokesperson Kuo stated that Taiwan and Japan engage in close cooperation and have a genuine and solid friendship, adding that the peoples of both nations have long fostered bonds of mutual support. During the pandemic, she pointed out, Taiwan and Japan supported each other and worked together to overcome challenges. She also noted that after the Fata’an Creek barrier lake disaster in September, the Japanese government provided a submersible water-level observation buoy, and Japanese citizens generously donated funds and even volunteered to be part of the “superheroes with shovels” debris removal effort in the disaster area, taking concrete actions to show care for those affected by the disaster in Hualien. The spokesperson emphasized that helping Taiwan’s people through tough times fully demonstrates the genuine kindness between democratic partners on the international stage and highlights the precious, family-like bonds that exist between Taiwan and Japan. Spokesperson Kuo noted that Taiwan and Japan are steadfast partners who share common values, and that Prime Minister Takaichi is a staunch friend of Taiwan. She expressed hope that both sides will continue to expand cooperation and exchanges and strengthen regional partnerships in a range of areas including trade and the economy, technology, disaster prevention, and security guarantees, so as to achieve new milestones for Taiwan-Japan ties, advance the well-being of our peoples, and jointly safeguard peace, stability, and prosperous development in the Indo-Pacific region. The spokesperson stated that President Lai is grateful to former Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru for his firm support for Taiwan during his time in office, and for continuing to emphasize at international venues, through both bilateral and multilateral joint statements, opposition against any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion. The president extended his sincere gratitude to the former prime minister for demonstrating through concrete actions his strong support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and for Taiwan’s participation in international affairs, which has deeply moved the people of Taiwan. President Lai expressed hope that the friendship between Taiwan and Japan will continue to grow, and that both sides can work together to contribute to regional peace, prosperity, and stability.  

On the afternoon of October 10, President Lai Ching-te met with Saint Lucia Governor-General Errol Charles and his wife. In remarks, President Lai thanked Saint Lucia for speaking up for Taiwan at various international fora and for its staunch support of Taiwan over the years. The president stated that faced with the convergence and expansion of authoritarianism around the world, our two nations stand together in the democratic community and share such universal values as freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights. He expressed hope that Taiwan and Saint Lucia will continue to expand and diversify cooperation in pursuit of mutual development and prosperity, further contributing to regional prosperity and advancement. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a pleasure to meet with Governor-General and First Lady Charles on our National Day. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincerest welcome to you. This is Governor-General Charles’s first visit to Taiwan. His presence not only demonstrates the deep friendship between our nations but also injects new momentum into our common pursuit of a better future. I believe that this trip will provide Governor-General Charles with a more comprehensive understanding of Taiwan and do much to enhance our diplomatic ties. Governor-General Charles has abundant experience in human resources management and places great emphasis on youth empowerment and national education policies. Over many years, Taiwan has provided many types of scholarships for Saint Lucians. To date more than 200 Saint Lucian students have studied in Taiwan, and 44 more scholarship recipients have arrived this year. I hope that after completing their studies and returning home, these students can become an important force to spur progress in Saint Lucia. Young people are the hope of a nation; and an investment in youth is an investment in a nation’s future. That is why, this year, we launched the Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative and its Diplomatic Allies Inbound Track Program. As a result, three young Taiwanese are currently serving internships in Saint Lucian government agencies, and five young Saint Lucians are pursuing their dreams here in Taiwan. We hope that internships and cultural exchanges can broaden the horizons of the next generation. The creativity and innovation inspired in them can unlock unlimited possibilities for our nations’ futures.  Faced with the convergence and expansion of authoritarianism around the world, our two nations stand together in the democratic community and share such universal values as freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights. Over the years, Saint Lucia has spoken up for Taiwan at various international fora. And at this year’s United Nations General Assembly, Saint Lucian Minister for External Affairs, International Trade, Civil Aviation, and Diaspora Affairs Alva Baptiste emphasized that UNGA Resolution 2758 did not preclude Taiwan’s inclusion and participation in the UN system. We truly appreciate Saint Lucia’s staunch support for Taiwan. I look forward to Taiwan and Saint Lucia continuing to expand and diversify cooperation in pursuit of mutual development and prosperity. This will allow us to further contribute to regional prosperity and advancement. In closing, I once again welcome Governor-General and Lady Charles as you join us for our National Day celebrations. May you experience Taiwan’s warm hospitality and have a very rewarding visit. I look forward to our diplomatic ties continuing to deepen and advance.  Governor-General Charles then delivered remarks, first conveying greetings from the government and people of Saint Lucia. He said that he cannot express in words the elation they have just experienced on seeing this beautiful island nation for the first time, and on joining the 2025 National Day Celebration of the Republic of China. Already, he noted, they are moved by the welcoming arrangements here in Taiwan. Notwithstanding the full agenda planned for their stay, he said, he looks forward to sampling firsthand the vibrant culture of Taiwan and enjoying the people’s hospitality, as well as the sights and sounds of our cities. Governor-General Charles emphasized that the dilemma of size continues to make it difficult for small countries to achieve critical mass in any international forum, if only to be heard, and that this is a constant challenge for Saint Lucia. But, he said, they are not unsettled by this prospect, because they have friends like Taiwan by their side. As the world grows more insular with every passing day, he expressed his sincere wish, in the spirit of friendship and goodwill, that Saint Lucia and Taiwan will forge a path together towards a peaceful future and a brighter horizon. Governor-General Charles once again thanked the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan) for continued support and assistance to the government and people of Saint Lucia. He noted that they cherish and look forward to strengthening the bonds of our mutual friendship as we each strive to secure our sovereignty and move forward on the path of continued development and prosperity. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Saint Lucia Ambassador Robert Kennedy Lewis.

On the afternoon of October 10, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Governor-General Froyla Tzalam of Belize and her husband. In remarks, President Lai thanked the government and National Assembly of Belize for having long voiced support for Taiwan at international venues. The president stated that throughout the 36-year diplomatic partnership between Taiwan and Belize, our two nations have shared the universal values of democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights while deepening cooperation and achieving fruitful results in many areas. He expressed hope to work together to advance mutual prosperity and development and elevate our nations’ diplomatic alliance to new heights. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to welcome Governor-General Tzalam and Mr. Daniel Mendez as they lead a delegation to Taiwan for the first time, and I thank them for traveling from afar to attend our Double Ten National Day celebrations. This demonstrates the importance that the Belizean government attaches to Taiwan and underscores the profound diplomatic friendship between our two nations. Belize is an important diplomatic ally of Taiwan in Central America. Throughout our 36-year diplomatic partnership, our two nations have shared the universal values of democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights. We have also deepened cooperation and achieved fruitful results in such areas as basic infrastructure, culture and education, women’s empowerment, public health, agricultural technology, and technological innovation. Together, we have promoted the construction of San Pedro General Hospital and social housing units, improved medical and social care environments in Belize, and advanced the well-being of the Belizean people. Furthermore, to nurture talent through education, Taiwan has provided scholarships and welcomed Belizean youth to Taiwan for their studies. We have also opened vocational training courses in Belize to help cultivate professional talent and promote industrial development. This year, we launched the Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative, the goal of which is to strengthen exchanges between our nations’ younger generations, foster mutual understanding, and add new momentum to our bilateral ties. In terms of economic and trade collaboration, last year, Belizean exports to Taiwan multiplied by a factor of more than 3.5, and Belize became Taiwan’s fourth largest source of lobster imports. This year, at the end of July, we further opened our market to tariff-free imports of frozen whiteleg shrimp and other products. Going forward, we will also promote cooperation on smart aquaculture. This will expand industrial upgrading and employment, highlighting the results of Taiwan’s integrated diplomacy. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the government and National Assembly of Belize for having long voiced support for Taiwan at international venues. Belize continues to show its backing at such international venues as the United Nations and the World Health Organization. In June, the House of Representatives passed a resolution to support a democratic Taiwan and strengthen bilateral bonds. These gestures demonstrate our profound friendship and mutual trust and will always be remembered by the people of Taiwan. I firmly believe that through Governor-General Tzalam’s visit, Taiwan and Belize will deepen cooperation in even more areas so as to advance mutual prosperity and development and elevate our nations’ diplomatic alliance to new heights. Governor-General Tzalam then delivered remarks, first offering good wishes and congratulations from the people and government of Belize on the country’s 114th National Day, and expressing gratitude for the hospitality they received. She stated that Belize has been a steadfast supporter of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in its quest for self-determination and to be allowed to participate in international fora with the full rights of a sovereign state, adding that Taiwan has much to share with the world. The governor-general noted that over the past three decades of bilateral relations, we have done much as partners sharing information on how to develop our nations. She said that Taiwan has supported Belize’s national educational needs; agricultural development; micro-, small-, medium-sized enterprises; strengthening risk management, and more. She also emphasized that the need to collaborate on global challenges such as pandemics, climate change, and environmental pollution is stronger than ever. Governor-General Tzalam stated that she can see Taiwan wants to do the right thing and invest not only in its people, but other like-minded countries. In a world that is chaotic and unpredictable, she said, stable governments in both of our countries and other partners can do much to ensure that robust institutions develop resiliency to deter conflict and instability. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Belize Ambassador Katherine Vanessa Meighan.  

On October 10, President Lai Ching-te hosted a luncheon for a delegation from the Japanese Diet visiting to take part in the 2025 National Day Celebration of the Republic of China (Taiwan). In remarks at the event, President Lai thanked members of the Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council for the deep friendship built up between Taiwan and Japan, which is an important driving force for improving bilateral relations. The president also thanked the Japanese government for emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait on many occasions at important international venues. He expressed hope that good friends on the council continue to deepen bilateral cooperation and take Taiwan-Japan friendship to a new level.  A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the members of the Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council. At a time when the Japanese government is undergoing a high-level reorganization, the council has overcome all obstacles to once again organize a large, cross-party delegation to visit Taiwan and participate in our National Day celebration. We are honored and touched by the sincere friendship the members have shown Taiwan. When Typhoon Ragasa inflicted heavy losses on Hualien last month, Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council Chairman Furuya Keiji, and other friends from Japan immediately conveyed their heartfelt concern for those affected by the disaster, and I would like to express my deepest thanks on behalf of the people of Taiwan. For over half a century, the Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council has been a strong bridge of friendship between Taiwan and Japan. Under Chairman Furuya’s leadership, members of the council have long spoken out for Taiwan in the Japanese Diet and shown key leadership capabilities in promoting Taiwan-Japan relations through deeper exchanges in various fields. In addition to thanking all of the members once again for supporting Taiwan, I also hope that through our joint efforts, we can consolidate the Taiwan-Japan relationship. Taiwan and Japan exemplify the adage that “a friend in need is a friend indeed.” We have supported each other when disasters struck, and as an interdependent community with a shared destiny, we have jointly faced geopolitical challenges. I therefore want to thank the Japanese government for emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait on many occasions at important international venues, receiving support from like-minded countries, including this year’s US-Japan summit, G7 foreign ministers’ meeting, bilateral talks between Japan and the NATO Secretary-General, and Japan-EU summit. These events all show that the international community has already reached a high level of consensus regarding maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and opposing unilateral changes to the status quo. The deep friendship between Taiwan and Japan built up by the Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council is an important driving force for improving bilateral relations. I look forward to our good friends on the council continuing to deepen bilateral cooperation, and taking Taiwan-Japan friendship to a new level. Lastly, I want to thank Chairman Furuya for organizing a large celebratory delegation to Taiwan every year, this year included, and for returning to Japan immediately after the event to address political developments, which is truly admirable. House of Representatives Member Sasaki Hajime then delivered remarks on behalf of Chairman Furuya, first congratulating Taiwan on National Day and saying he was honored to come to Taiwan again to participate in National Day celebrations and attend a banquet hosted by our president and vice president. He said he was deeply impressed by President Lai’s earlier remarks in his National Day address regarding ways to deepen democracy, maintain economic growth, and strengthen the nation, and also expressed wholehearted support for the president’s approach in “maintaining peace through strength” and appeal to citizens for unity. On behalf of the council, Representative Sasaki expressed his deepest condolences for the disaster victims of Typhoon Ragasa in Hualien, and House of Representatives Member Kaneko Yasushi, the delegation’s deputy leader, presented a list of disaster relief donors to President Lai. Representative Sasaki continued, saying that buoy equipment is expected to arrive from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism on October 17 in Taiwan, where it will be used for monitoring water levels in reservoirs, demonstrating Japan’s support for disaster prevention cooperation with Taiwan. Representative Sasaki mentioned that the council has six internal research groups that actively conduct various activities to promote Taiwan-Japan relations, and that there are several female members of the Diet visiting Taiwan on this trip for exchanges. He mentioned that the council also previously promoted an amendment to Japanese law that, since May, has allowed Taiwanese spouses to designate their nationality as “Taiwan” in Japan’s family registry system, demonstrating Japan’s respect for and acknowledgement of Taiwan. He went on to say that the council will continue to promote multi-level exchanges involving local governments and legislative bodies, as well as educational trips for middle school students, to increase mutual visits and understanding for people from both countries. In addition, he said, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership research group will continue to promote economic cooperation. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s establishment of a fab in Kumamoto, he said, symbolizes that Taiwan-Japan economic cooperation has entered a new era, and he added that we can further deepen our partnership in areas such as economic security, energy, and the strengthening of supply chains. Representative Sasaki stated that on this trip to Taiwan, the council’s representative delegation also exchanged views on issues such as countering disinformation, media literacy, and fact-checking. Last week’s Taiwan-Japan Economic Partnership Committee meeting, he said, also made progress on issues such as digital trade, disaster prevention, and e-commerce. In terms of cultural exchanges, Representative Sasaki noted that this year marks the 100th anniversary of the National Palace Museum and said that Chairman Furuya will present the museum with Mino ware works from his hometown. Representative Sasaki emphasized that Japan is well aware that Taiwan is facing pressure and threats from China, making Taiwan’s external environment increasingly fraught, and that we cannot allow “Taiwan to have a problem.” He stated that Japan will work closely with democratic partners in Taiwan, the United States, Australia, and Europe to jointly safeguard universal values such as freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. Representative Sasaki closed his remarks by wishing Taiwan prosperity and good fortune and expressing hope that friendly exchanges between Taiwan and Japan will continue to deepen. Also in attendance were Japanese House of Representatives Member Komiyama Yasuko, House of Representatives Member Azuma Toru, House of Representatives Member Nishime Kosaburo, House of Councillors Member Kitamura Tsuneo, House of Representatives Member Fukushima Nobuyuki, House of Representatives Member Nagasaka Yasumasa, House of Representatives Member Kokuba Konosuke, House of Representatives Member Hiranuma Shojiro, House of Representatives Member Watanabe Shu, House of Councillors Member Ejima Kiyoshi, House of Councillors Member Aoyama Shigeharu, House of Councillors Member Matsukawa Rui, House of Representatives Member Kitagami Keiro, House of Representatives Member Oonishi Kensuke, House of Representatives Member Shinohara Go, House of Councillors Member Shiomura Ayaka, House of Representatives Member Fujimaki Kenta, House of Representatives Member Shimada Tomoaki, House of Representatives Member Nishioka Yoshitaka, House of Representatives Member Takahashi Hideaki, House of Representatives Member Kishida Mitsuhiro, House of Representatives Member Yoshikawa Rina, House of Councillors Member Harada Hidekazu, and House of Councillors Member Yamanaka Sen.

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.