Taiwan President Says Island’s Defense Is Test of Global Rules Amid China Pressure

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te stated that China’s escalating threats challenge the international community’s commitment to a rules-based order. He emphasized that Taiwan’s resolve against authoritarian expansion is about preserving the principle that force cannot override rules and that powerful nations cannot deny a people their right to self-determination. Lai delivered this message during Double Ten Day celebrations, marking Taiwan’s National Day.

• Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te views China’s escalating threats as a test for the international community’s commitment to the rules-based international order.
• Lai stated that China is applying pressure through military and gray-zone activities to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.
• The President emphasized that Taiwan’s defense is a matter of survival and a test of whether the world believes force cannot override rules.
• The address was delivered on Double Ten Day, celebrating Taiwan’s National Day and the anniversary of the Republic of China’s founding.