President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) met with a media delegation on Tuesday from the Global Taiwan Institute at the Presidential Office, a presidential statement said Wednesday. 

Lai said China has, in recent years, sought to change the Taiwan Strait status quo through military intimidation, gray-zone operations, and economic coercion. He thanked the delegation for promoting international understanding of democratic Taiwan and highlighting regional peace and stability through global media, garnering more support for Taiwan. 

Lai emphasized that “peace is priceless and war has no winners.” He indicated Taiwan is bolstering defense capabilities, defense reforms, and societal resilience without illusions about peace. The government proposed an eight-year US$40 billion special defense budget to acquire equipment, build the T-dome, and enhance combat capabilities, demonstrating resolve to safeguard national security and democratic freedoms. 

Lai noted Taiwan’s outward investments in China fell from 83.8% in 2010 to about 3.7% last year, with the U.S. now the top destination and export market. He expects deeper Taiwan-U.S. economic ties and cooperation in tech innovation and industry.

The president said, “This year marks the 30th anniversary of Taiwan’s direct presidential elections and the U.S.’s 250th anniversary. Though our democratic histories differ in length, our pursuit of freedom is the same. Taiwan will fulfill its responsibility for regional security and join the U.S. and other democratic partners to maintain regional stability, supply chain security, and global prosperity.” 

GTI Advisory Board Member and David and Diane Steffy Fellow in American Public Policy Studies at the Hoover Institution, Dr. Lanhee J. Chen (陳仁宜), recalled 40 years of Taiwan’s changes since his childhood return, but said Taiwan-U.S. ties remain rock solid. He noted that many delegation members are visiting Taiwan for the first time to experience its life, culture, and interactions, deepening their understanding of its challenges. The visit comes at a pivotal time for Taiwan-U.S. relations, and Chen hopes members will continue focusing on Taiwan’s threats from adversarial forces post-trip.