TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan remains committed to upholding democracy, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said on Wednesday.
During a meeting with Ketagalan Forum guest speakers, Lai stressed that Taiwan will always uphold its democratic and constitutional system and defend its sovereignty, according to the Presidential Office. He reaffirmed that Taiwan’s future can only be decided by its people.
To achieve these goals, Lai said he has implemented the “Four Pillars of Peace Action Plan” since taking office, emphasizing that peace must be backed by strength. He said that giving in to pressure from superpowers cannot bring lasting peace.
The president reiterated that Taiwan will maintain the status quo, and that it is China that is changing it. As long as cross-strait interactions are conducted based on equality and dignity, Taiwan is willing to engage and cooperate with China to promote peace and foster mutually beneficial development, according to the Presidential Office.
In addition to procuring weapons from abroad, Taiwan is bolstering its indigenous defense capabilities, Lai said, particularly in the drone industry. A Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee has also been established under the Presidential Office to promote civil defense, he added.
Amid Chinese threats, Lai said Taiwan must partner with the international community to create deterrence. The presence and support of international guests demonstrate friendship and boost confidence within Taiwanese society, per the Presidential Office.
