On 10 October, the Republic of China (Taiwan)’s 108th Double Tenth National Day, President Tsai Ing-wen delivered an address entitled “Nation of Resilience, Forward into the World”. The president highlighted Taiwan’s resilience in the face of serious challenges, both present and historical, as well as the country’s goals in the future. Commenting on China’s threat to impose its “one country, two systems” on Taiwan as well as its diplomatic and military pressure, the president stated “when our freedom and democracy are challenged…we must stand up and defend ourselves.” President Tsai reiterated the overwhelming consensus among Taiwan’s 23 million people to reject “one country, two systems”. The president highlighted Taiwan’s resilience over 70 years in facing serious obstacles without ever backing down, from the August 23 Artillery War of 1958 to the Asian financial crisis of 1997. “These shared memories exemplify the resilience of Taiwan’s people, a resilience that led us to become one of the Four Asian Tigers, a resilience that led us down the arduous path of democratization to become an important global democracy,” she said.
The president pointed out the challenges for Taiwan in the future, including China’s sharp power and challenges to free, democratic values and the global order. “As the strategic forefront of the Indo-Pacific region, Taiwan has become the first line of defence for democratic values,” the president stated. President Tsai stressed the government’s commitment to working with like-minded countries to ensure that the peaceful and stable cross-strait status quo is not unilaterally altered. Looking to the future, President Tsai highlighted three goals: first, ensuring Taiwan’s people remain united under the banner of freedom and democracy, second, building a stronger Taiwan and bolstering its economic capabilities, and third, actively engaging with the world to overcome challenges. “We will face the future with optimism and overcome challenges with determination,” the president said. “Let’s go, Taiwan.” Several distinguished guests were in attendance, including Prime Minister Ambrose M. Dlamini of Eswatini, Prime Minister Allen M. Chastanet of St. Lucia, Guatemala Vice President Jafeth Ernesto Cabrera Franco and Paraguay Vice President Hugo Adalberto Velazquez Moreno.
