Taiwan's President Calls for Peace with China While Fortifying Defenses

President Lai Ching-te emphasizes dialogue while stressing the need for continued military readiness, amidst ongoing tensions with Beijing.

TAIPEI: In a significant address on Tuesday, May 20th, marking his first year in office, Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te reiterated his commitment to peace and dialogue with China. However, he underscored the imperative of strengthening the island's defenses, reflecting the delicate balance Taiwan seeks to maintain amidst escalating cross-strait tensions.

President Lai, who China views as a "separatist," has faced rebuffed offers for talks from Beijing. His administration rejects China's claims of sovereignty over the democratically governed island, asserting that the people of Taiwan have the right to determine their own future.

Addressing reporters at the presidential office in Taipei, Lai stated, "I, too, am committed to peace. Because peace is priceless and war has no winners. But when it comes to seeking peace, we cannot have dreams nor illusions."

He further emphasized that Taiwan would continue to enhance its defenses, positing that preparing for war is the most effective method of preventing it. "Taiwan is happy to have exchanges and cooperation with China as long as there is reciprocal dignity. Using exchanges to replace hemming in, dialogue to replace confrontation."

China's Taiwan Affairs Office swiftly responded, labeling Lai's speech a "two-faced tactic" that is "doomed to fail." Spokesperson Chen Binhua asserted that "no matter what the leaders of the Taiwan region say or how they say it, it cannot change the fact that Taiwan is a part of China ... nor can it stop the inevitable trend of national reunification."

Adding to the complexity, China's defence ministry has previously described Lai as a "Taiwan Strait crisis maker."

Beyond cross-strait issues, Lai also addressed potential U.S. tariffs, indicating that discussions with Washington are proceeding "smoothly." Additionally, the government plans to establish a sovereign wealth fund to bolster the tech-focused economy.

"The government will set up a sovereign fund to create a national investment platform, making full use of Taiwan's industrial strengths, led by the government, in collaboration with the strengths of private enterprises," Lai said, without providing specific details.

Following the media event, President Lai attended the Computex trade show, where Taiwan-born Jensen Huang, the CEO of Nvidia, was a prominent figure. Lai visited booths of Nvidia's suppliers and partners, including Foxconn and Mediatek, engaging with senior executives.

China's military activities have been closely watched, including recent war games. The Ministry of National Defence of Taiwan reported the detection of Chinese military aircraft and vessels near the island in the past 24 hours.