Taiwan Signals Willingness to Talk with China While Bolstering Defenses

President Lai Ching-te emphasizes dialogue and defense amid rising tensions with Beijing.

TAIPEI: Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te stated on Tuesday, May 20, that the island is prepared to engage in talks with China on equal terms while simultaneously continuing to strengthen its defenses. The statement was made as Lai marked his first year in office.

Lai, known for his strong stance on Taiwan's sovereignty, delivered remarks stressing the need "to prepare for war to avoid war" and to bolster the island's economic resilience. Following his inauguration, where he vowed to defend democracy against China, Lai affirmed Taiwan's "willingness" to communicate with Beijing if such dialogue occurs with "parity and dignity."

China, which views Taiwan as part of its territory and has threatened military action, has previously rejected Lai's offers for talks.

"Peace is priceless and there are no winners in war," Lai stated, while also noting that "we cannot have illusions." He vowed to continue "to strengthen our national defense capabilities." Taiwan will "actively cooperate with international allies, shoulder to shoulder to exert the power of deterrence, to prepare for war to avoid war, and to achieve the goal of peace," Lai told journalists.

Since Lai assumed office, China has conducted multiple large-scale military drills near Taiwan. Taiwan's coast guard recently warned that China might employ "cognitive warfare" to undermine public morale during Lai's anniversary. In a related incident, Taiwanese coast guard personnel arrested two Chinese nationals attempting to enter an island in the Taiwan-administered Kinmen archipelago, which is located near mainland China.

Amid pressure from Washington to relocate factories and reduce trade imbalances, Lai emphasized that Taiwan would diversify its markets and boost domestic demand to enhance its economic resilience. Lai also announced plans for a sovereign wealth fund to "boost Taiwan's economic momentum," though details on its size were not provided.

Lai's first year in office has been marked by domestic political challenges, as opposition parties, controlling the parliament, have sought to impede his agenda. Lai's approval rating has decreased to 45.9 percent from 58 percent nearly a year ago, according to an April survey by the Taiwanese Public Opinion Foundation. His disapproval rating rose to 45.7 percent – the highest since he took office. The polling group attributed this to the government's handling of US tariffs and the DPP's recall campaign targeting the opposition. DPP supporters are trying to remove about 30 KMT lawmakers.