TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Former President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) met with a delegation of students from Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology on Tuesday.

The student delegation was part of a self-initiated “Taiwan Trek,” seeking to learn more about the country’s civil society and related issues such as pension, marriage equality, and infrastructure. Tsai posted photos from the meeting to social media, adding the message, “As a former university professor, I always enjoy speaking with students, especially about topics close to my heart like the value of democracy.”

During the meeting with students, Tsai said young people from around the world were invited to visit Taiwan. Concerning democracy, she discussed the importance of communication and transparency, per CNA. Tsai said it takes time to communicate and reach a consensus. 

More importantly, Tsai said the Taiwanese are willing participants in the democratic process. This is why Taiwan's democracy can develop time and time again.

Regarding the health insurance system, Tsai said public cooperation and government communication have enabled Taiwan to maintain social stability and economic growth even during the most recent global pandemic.

Tsai said many reforms regarding pensions and marriage equality have been carried out in recent years. Promoting these reforms was difficult, including increasing workloads for frontline workers and civil servants, and passing such legislation also required courage from those in power.

Reflecting on the current state of world affairs, Tsai said the international situation is full of uncertainty. At this time, Taiwan needs partners from all over the world, especially young people.

Tsai said that Taiwan has always embraced the world's top talents, and she hoped that everyone would gain a better understanding of Taiwan during their visit. She also encouraged the students to share their impressions and speak up for Taiwan in the future.