MANZINI – “Taiwan's strength is not in its population, but in the people's free will.”
These were the words of Taiwan President and Commander–in-Chief Lai Ching-te when he delivered an address on the second anniversary of his taking office.
In his address, the president stated that over the past two years, in the face of various changes.
“Taiwan has remained steadfast in protecting citizens' free and democratic way of life, maintaining the status quo of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and developing the economy to make Taiwan more resilient, more competitive and better able to care for its people.”
President Lai said Taiwan's strength is not in its population, but in the people's free will.
“It is not in the volume of our voices, but in the clarity of our values. It is not in the size of our territory, but in our unwavering commitment to walking the path forward.”
He said Taiwan is a nation with good intentions, is willing to bear responsibility and is a trustworthy partner of the world.
“On the path of democracy, Taiwan is a beacon showing the world the way forward,” he said.
He motivated the Taiwanese people to come together in solidarity to defend democracy, pursue peace and create greater prosperity.
“Today marks the second anniversary of my inauguration as president of the Republic of China. I am profoundly grateful to the people of our nation for granting me the opportunity to shoulder this responsibility for our country and to serve our citizens. When I took the oath of office here on this day two years ago, I pledged to all our citizens: I will observe the Constitution, faithfully perform my duties, promote the welfare of the people, safeguard the security of the State, and will in no way betray the people's trust.”
He said over the past two years, not a single day has passed where this oath has left his heart, nor has there been a single moment where he evaded this responsibility, even when the challenges became difficult.
He said over the past 30 years, the people of Taiwan have written their own democratic history, ballot by ballot.
“Through one peaceful transfer of power after another, we have proven within our society that our democracy is mature and irreversible. No matter how formidable the challenges, Taiwan will walk its own path with resolve, confidence and dignity. We will engage with the world and bravely shape our future,” he said.
He said democracy is the most important part of Taiwan's identity. He explained that such democracy is not a gift that falls from the heavens but was bravely fought for through the sacrifice and devotion of many generations.
“Thirty years ago, our people chose to determine our nation's direction through democracy; today, we must all the more use the power of democracy to determine what heights Taiwan will reach in the future,” he said.
President Lai said Taiwan's future cannot be decided by forces outside the borders, nor can it be held hostage by fear, division, or short-term gain.
“Taiwan's future must be determined together by our 23 million people. I know full well that in a democratic society, differing opinions are a certainty. The same is true for competition among the ruling and opposition parties. Yet, while parties may compete, the nation must not be divided.”
He said over the past two years, they have remained steadfast in maintaining the status quo of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
“Maintaining peace and stability across the strait and preventing external forces from altering the status quo are our national strategic goals. Taiwan is a responsible member of the international community – not a destabilizer.”
He added that Taiwan is willing to engage in healthy and orderly exchanges with China under the principles of parity and dignity.
“However, we firmly reject united front tactics that package unification as peace. History has taught us that peace cannot rely solely on goodwill, much less be built upon concessions or illusions.
“Peace depends on uniting to cultivate our national strength, demonstrating a clear national will, and cooperating closely with our global democratic partners. True peace can only be secured through strength,” he said.
The President recently visited Eswatini, where he officially toured the Ezulwini Palazzo and the Science and Technology Park.
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te greeting the Taiwanes community living in Eswatini before boarding the plane and departing Eswatini recently. (Pics: Timothy Simelane)