Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te emphasized China’s military threats as a significant challenge for Taiwan during his recent South Pacific tour, which included a U.S. stopover. The trip focused on South Pacific island nations, beginning with Hawaii, where he talked with various political figures and experts.
At a closed-door forum at the East-West Center (EWC) in Hawaii, Lai delivered a speech titled “Future of Mutual Prosperity: Taiwan as a Partner for Peace and Prosperity in the Indo-Pacific Region.” He identified China’s military threats as the most pressing challenge. Lai stressed Taiwan’s orderly and stable response to these threats, highlighting efforts to bolster national defense capabilities and support the livelihood of Taiwan’s 23 million citizens.
Lai emphasized Taiwan’s dedication to strengthening its self-defense mechanisms to protect democratic values and the rule of law within the Indo-Pacific region. He also highlighted Taiwan’s critical role in the global supply chain, particularly in advanced industries like semiconductors. Lai outlined four key initiatives the Taiwanese government is implementing to maintain regional peace.
In a discussion with former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Lai focused on the importance of semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and preventing double taxation between Taiwan and the U.S., all within China’s military threats. Taiwanese media reported that Pelosi supported Taiwan’s participation in international organizations and discussed the significance of Lai’s meetings with prominent U.S. figures, including pro-Taiwan lawmakers.
While in Hawaii, Lai also paid his respects at the USS Arizona Memorial, which honors those lost in the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack. He laid a wreath and signed the guestbook as “President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Lai Ching-te.” Following his visit to Hawaii, Lai’s itinerary included stops in the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau, with a brief layover in Guam.
In related developments, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense reported heightened Chinese military activity around Taiwan. The ministry detected 16 Chinese military aircraft, six warships, and three government vessels. Ten of the aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, entering Taiwan’s northern, southwestern, and southeastern air defense identification zones.
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