President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) says Taiwan is not the only victim of China’s attempts at authoritarian expansion. During his opening speech at the Ketagalan Forum this Wednesday, Lai also addressed security in the Taiwan Strait, economic resilience, and digital democracy.
Lai says that authoritarian expansion has become increasingly aggressive over the past few years with the Russian invasion of Ukraine, North Korea’s threats to regional peace and stability, and ongoing wars in the Middle East. He says China's military exercises in the Taiwan Strait and joint exercises with Russia intimidate neighboring countries, undermining regional peace and stability.
Lai says that China’s hybrid warfare infiltrates countries’ defenses through cyber attacks, cognitive warfare, disinformation, and political interference. He adds that Taiwan is not the only target of electoral intervention, and that democracies should be a united front against such authoritarian expansion.
During his speech, Lai elaborated on Taiwan’s Four Pillars of Peace action plan, which includes strengthened national defenses, economic resilience, alliances with other democratic nations, and amicable exchanges with China on the condition of parity and dignity. Speaking on the economy, Lai said Taiwan has significantly reduced its dependence on China, with China’s foreign investment dropping from 83.8% in 2010 to 11.4% last year, a record low. According to Lai, Taiwan is seeking new trade agreement opportunities and the chance to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
Lai says Taiwan’s role in the international community will be one that is neither humble nor overbearing. He adds that Taiwan will maintain the status quo across the Taiwan Strait, and is willing to engage in exchanges with China. Lai says Taiwan is determined to become a key force in promoting democracy, peace, and prosperity in the world.