Safeguarding peace in the Taiwan Strait is essential for global security and prosperity, according to President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) this Sunday. Speaking during visits to temples and community forums in central Taiwan, Lai outlined what he calls his three core missions as president: defending Taiwan against threats from China, protecting the lives and property of its people, and ensuring economic opportunities for the island’s 23 million citizens.

Lai explained that Taiwan had previously put all its eggs in one basket by concentrating overseas investment in China, making it difficult to adapt when situations arose. Instead, he urged industries to diversify globally, pursue digital and green transformation, and build resilience against trade risks, such as United States tariffs. He added that strengthening defense has remained a priority since Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) was in office, with increased budgets, foreign arms purchases, and development of Taiwan’s domestic defense industry.

The president said, “This means that our Taiwan-based businesses and industries can expand globally and market their products worldwide. We must engage with the international community, earn money from around the world, and ensure that our national economic development is not only healthy, but also courageous. Do you agree?”

Lai also cited Taiwan’s strong performance, noting an average 3.2% growth rate during Tsai’s two terms, which was the highest among Asia’s “four tigers.” Its second-quarter growth of 7.96% this year also outpaced China, explained Lai.

The president stressed that Taiwan’s security is tied to global interests, pointing to the steady presence of U.S., European and Indo-Pacific naval vessels in the Taiwan Strait. He said, “Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are essential to global security and prosperity.”

Taiwan will continue deepening cooperation with democratic partners on defense and security, added Lai, saying the international community increasingly recognizes the importance of the island’s role in maintaining regional peace.