Taipei: Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu emphasized that a war across the Taiwan Strait must never occur as Taiwan aims to uphold freedom and democracy, while also urging an end to partisan infighting. “As [we] pursue freedom and democracy, we must never allow a war to break out across the Taiwan Strait, nor can we continue to allow endless partisan infighting,” Han stated during his speech at the National Day ceremony in Taipei.

According to Focus Taiwan, Han, who chaired the ceremony in front of the Presidential Office building, noted that the Republic of China (ROC), Taiwan’s official name, is now in its 114th year and facing challenges greater than expected. He pointed out several domestic issues, including the environmental impact of solar panel installations on mountains and paddy fields, and the illegal extraction of sand and gravel from farmland in Meinong, Kaohsiung-an area referred to as “Meinong Gorge.”

Han also indirectly criticized the Democratic Progressive Party administration, suggesting that its “de-Sinicization” policies could elevate the risk of war. He expressed concern that ongoing tariff negotiations with the United States might jeopardize Taiwan’s future. In his concluding remarks, Han expressed a desire to advance legislative reforms and enhance cooperation among political parties to establish a government that serves all 23 million citizens with political integrity and a fair judicial system.