TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) spoke to over 20,000 attendees at the National Day Gala at Taipei Dome on Saturday (Oct. 5).
Lai wished Taiwan a happy birthday and hoped for prosperity and safety for its people. He thanked Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜), who led the National Day Gala preparatory committee, Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), who oversaw the participation of relevant ministries, and Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安), who coordinated municipal government resources.
Lai said it has been eight years since Taipei hosted the National Day Gala. He said the event required extensive coordination, with several rehearsals beforehand, per CNA.
Lai told the audience, “We are a sovereign country, and we must love our country always.” He said, “We should learn from the spirit and sacrifices of forefathers and martyrs to safeguard the nation's sovereignty and protect our democracy, freedom, and human rights, otherwise these sacrifices would be in vain."
As the People's Republic of China (PRC) celebrated its 75th birthday on Oct. 1, Lai said it will never be considered the motherland of the people of the Republic of China (ROC), celebrating its 113th birthday.
"If anyone in Taiwan wants to say happy birthday to the PRC, please do not call it the motherland," Lai said.
Lai also thanked citizens for working hard for the country all year. During Typhoon Krathon, Lai said the central government and local disaster prevention personnel showed dedication and commitment.
Lai said this recent national disaster led Premier Cho to increase the 2025 flood control budget by NT$15.9 billion (US$497 million) to NT$55.1 billion. The extra funding will provide resources to counties and cities for construction associated with water conservancy and various disasters faced by climate change.
