TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) highlighted the arduous democratization process on the 35th anniversary of the June 4th Tiananmen Square protest. 

Commemorating the protest is not just about the day itself, but celebrating the common belief that only democracy and freedom can truly protect the people, Lai said in a Facebook post. “We will continue to keep this historical memory alive,” he said.

Democracy and freedom are hard-won, Lai added. We must use democracy to build consensus, respond to authoritarianism, and face the expansion of tyranny with courage, he said.

In Taiwan, thanks to the efforts and sacrifices of our pro-democracy predecessors, the country transitioned from an authoritarian regime to a democratic system, the president said. The younger generation has inherited the torch of democracy and continues to carry it forward, he said.

Lai said, “A truly respectable country is one that allows its people to speak out loudly.” He said the power of the youth to promote national reform should not be suppressed and should be protected and encouraged by the nation.

Lai pledged to deepen Taiwan's democracy and cooperate with like-minded countries to create a better world.