Dhaka:President Lai Ching-te delivered a National Day address that maintained a steady stance on cross-strait issues, reaffirming Taiwan's commitment to peace without provoking Beijing, according to a political science scholar.
According to Focus Taiwan, Lai's speech, titled "Taiwan's Future A City upon a Hill, the Salt and Light of the World," emphasized Taiwan's aspiration to build a "city upon a hill" amidst global challenges, such as wars and authoritarian expansion. This vision represents both an aspiration for the country's future and a responsibility it is willing to undertake.
Chen Shih-min, an associate professor in National Taiwan University's Department of Political Science, commented that Lai highlighted Taiwan's efforts and achievements in becoming a model of democracy, freedom, and economic development. Chen noted that the speech reflected principles of stability, clarity, and Taiwan's role in safeguarding peace, without giving Beijing any pretext for military action.
On U.S.-China relations, Chen mentioned that while some observers view strategic competition between the U.S. and China as beneficial to Taiwan, Lai welcomed dialogue between the two powers to manage competition and reduce conflict risk. Lai also reiterated that Taiwan's defense enhancements aim to deter war rather than provoke it, countering claims that Taiwan destabilizes the region.
Separately, Tsai Jung-hsiang, a professor of political science at National Chung Cheng University, identified three focal areas of Lai's speech reaffirming peace, clarifying historical narratives, and strengthening international ties. Tsai highlighted Lai's emphasis on maintaining peace through strength, including asymmetric weapons development and partnerships with Indo-Pacific nations.
Tsai also noted Lai's remarks on Taiwan's economic performance, projecting over 11% annual growth, increased trade with the U.S., and the Taiwan Stock Exchange's rise, making it the world's fourth-largest stock market by market capitalization. These achievements illustrate Taiwan's thriving economy and reduced dependence on China.