Taiwan would uphold “peace through strength” while facing the expansion of authoritarianism, President William Lai (賴清德) said as he met with a delegation from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI) this morning in Taipei.
Former US president Ronald Reagan, who made the Six Assurances to Taiwan in 1982, was a good friend of Taiwan, Lai said, describing his belief that “peace through strength” is particularly important to safeguard freedom, democracy, peace and the rule-based international order in the face of authoritarian expansion.
The RRPFI promotes personal freedom, economic opportunity, global democracy and national dignity, he said, expressing hope that Taiwan and the US would continue to deepen bilateral ties.
Photo courtesy of the Presidential Office
Taiwan would actively implement its Four Pillars of Peace action plan to strengthen national defense capability and economic security, while demonstrating leadership regarding cross-strait relations, Lai said.
Taiwan would also promote diplomacy and deepen cooperation with the US and other democratic countries to ensure regional peace and stability and to safeguard democracy and freedom, he added.
Freedom is a universal right that no one should be deprived of, said David Trulio, who led the delegation.
Taiwan is a vibrant democracy where all parties share a commitment to democratic principles, he said.
Maintaining peace through strength is crucial in cross-strait relations, which involves a strong partnership between the US and Taiwan and the US’ sustained deterrence, he said.
Trulio also said this visit to Taiwan is crucial as the new US administration is to be inaugurated in 11 days, expressing hopes that the two countries will continue to deepen their shared commitments to freedom, democracy, economy, security and stability.
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