Taiwan’s National Day Address by President Lai Ching-te
On October 11, President Lai Ching-te of Taiwan delivered a speech on the 113th National Day of the Republic of China, emphasizing Taiwan’s commitment to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. He expressed readiness to work with China on global issues, highlighting the importance of dialogue based on equality and dignity.
Four Pillars of Peace Action Plan
President Lai introduced the Four Pillars of Peace action plan, aimed at strengthening national defense and ensuring the well-being of Taiwanese citizens. He announced the formation of three new committees: the National Climate Change Committee, the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee, and the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee. These committees are designed to enhance national resilience and foster international cooperation.
Green Energy and Global Goals
Taiwan is committed to diversifying green energy sources and developing energy technologies to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. President Lai reiterated Taiwan’s determination to maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait and engage in dialogue with China.
Call for Regional and Global Peace
President Lai urged China to use its influence to help resolve conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. He assured that Taiwan will remain a force for peace and prosperity in the region.
International Participation
This year’s National Day celebration was attended by 183 foreign guests, including 14 official delegations and 91 representatives from diplomatic missions.
China’s Satellite Launch
On the same day, China launched satellites from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center, with a flight path over central Taiwan. Taiwan’s Ministry of Defence monitored the launch, confirming it posed no threat.
Doubts Revealed
Taiwan -: Taiwan is an island located in East Asia, near China. It has its own government and operates like an independent country, but China considers it a part of its territory.
Lai Ching-te -: Lai Ching-te is the President of Taiwan. He is a leader who represents the people of Taiwan and makes important decisions for the country.
National Day -: National Day is a special day when a country celebrates its independence or the founding of the nation. In Taiwan, it is celebrated on October 10th.
Taiwan Strait -: The Taiwan Strait is a body of water that separates Taiwan from mainland China. It is an important area for trade and has been a point of tension between Taiwan and China.
Four Pillars of Peace -: The Four Pillars of Peace is a plan introduced by President Lai to promote peace and cooperation. It includes strategies to ensure safety and collaboration between Taiwan and China.
Net zero emissions -: Net zero emissions means balancing the amount of greenhouse gases released with an equivalent amount removed from the atmosphere. Taiwan aims to achieve this by 2050 to help combat climate change.
Climate change -: Climate change refers to long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns, mainly caused by human activities like burning fossil fuels. It can lead to extreme weather and environmental issues.
Resilience -: Resilience is the ability to recover quickly from difficulties or changes. In this context, it means Taiwan is preparing to handle challenges like climate change effectively.
Global conflicts -: Global conflicts are disputes or fights between countries or groups that affect many people around the world. President Lai wants China to help solve these issues.
Satellites -: Satellites are objects sent into space to orbit the Earth. They can be used for communication, weather monitoring, and other purposes. China launched satellites over Taiwan, but they were not harmful.
