TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) met with members of the foreign press Thursday, emphasizing that Taiwan's sovereignty resides with its people and reaffirming the nation's commitment to working with the international community.
Speaking at a tea reception at Taipei Guest House, Lai called on China to halt military expansion in the South China Sea and abandon the use of force against Taiwan. He said Taiwan remains willing to engage in exchanges with China based on equality to promote regional peace and prosperity, according to CNA.
Lai thanked foreign journalists for their reporting on Taiwan and said those who have worked in the country have witnessed its democracy firsthand.
He said this marks the 30th anniversary of Taiwan's first direct presidential election, where Taiwanese voters defied Chinese missile threats and achieved a voter turnout rate of 76%, per a press release.
Lai said Taiwan has reinforced its democratic system through repeated peaceful transfers of power and earned international recognition for its democratic governance and economic achievements. He pointed to Taiwan's growing role in global supply chains, semiconductor manufacturing, and AI.
Turning to international affairs, Lai said he welcomed reports of a potential peace agreement between the US and Iran. He also said he hoped the Russia-Ukraine war would end soon, per CNA.
Lai also thanked G7 leaders for opposing unilateral changes to the status quo and rejecting the use of force or coercion in the Taiwan Strait. He reiterated Taiwan's commitment to working with like-minded partners to safeguard peace and stability in the region.
