Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, visiting Hawaii ahead of his trip to the Pacific island countries, stressed the importance of coordination between Taiwan and the United States on security and high-tech industry.
According to Taiwan’s presidential office, Lai gave a speech during a closed-door session with officials from a think tank in Hawaii on Sunday.
His visit comes against a backdrop of concern over military threats from China. Lai said Taiwan was strengthening its self-defense and economic security. He said recent cooperation between Taiwan and the United States has “demonstrated Taiwan’s commitment to its security, as well as Taiwan and the United States’ shared commitment to peace in the Indo-Pacific region.” .
Mr. Lai highlighted Taiwan’s active contribution to global supply chains, especially in semiconductors and other high-tech industries. He said the partnership between Taiwan and the United States “not only strengthens these industries, but also demonstrates Taiwan’s strategic importance as a trustworthy and reliable partner.”
Taiwan is preparing for the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump next year. The latter demanded that Taiwan increase its defense budget. He has also been critical of Taiwan’s thriving chip industry, which he says puts American companies at a disadvantage.
Hawaii is a stop on Mr. Lai’s first overseas tour since taking office, which will also take him to the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu and Palau. He said Taiwan was ready to develop close relations with its Pacific allies through cooperation in areas such as public health and climate change.
Swiss
Related News :