RismadarVoice Reporters
October 10, 2026
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te has reaffirmed the island’s commitment to peaceful relations with China while declaring that its people will not surrender their freedom or accept political subordination.
Speaking during Taiwan’s National Day celebrations in Taipei on Saturday, Lai said his administration would continue pursuing dialogue while strengthening the island’s ability to defend itself against potential military threats.
The president maintained that Taiwan’s efforts to modernise its military and increase defence spending were intended to deter conflict rather than provoke confrontation.
He argued that meaningful dialogue required mutual respect and that peace could not be sustained without adequate security arrangements.
Lai also expressed support for continued exchanges across the Taiwan Strait but insisted that such engagement must respect the dignity and interests of Taiwan’s population.
His remarks came against the backdrop of longstanding tensions between Taipei and Beijing over the island’s political status.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly stated that it reserves the option of using force to achieve unification. Taiwan, meanwhile, operates under its own democratically elected government and maintains separate political and military institutions.
Lai urged international partners, particularly democracies in the Indo-Pacific region, to support efforts aimed at maintaining stability and preventing military confrontation.
He also welcomed dialogue between Washington and Beijing, saying efforts to manage differences between the two powers were important for regional security.
The United States maintains unofficial relations with Taiwan and provides security assistance under its domestic legal framework, while formally recognising the government in Beijing.
Washington has consistently expressed opposition to unilateral changes to the status quo across the Taiwan Strait.
Lai’s address also drew attention to Taiwan’s defence preparations, including discussions surrounding a proposed $14 billion American arms package whose approval remained uncertain in the account of the developments.
Beijing has previously criticised Lai’s political position and rejected his approach to cross-strait relations, while Taiwanese authorities maintain that the island’s future should be determined peacefully.
Taiwan observes its National Day on October 10 each year, commemorating the 1911 uprising that eventually led to the establishment of the Republic of China.
The anniversary provided Lai with an opportunity to restate his administration’s position that Taiwan would remain open to peaceful engagement while maintaining its capacity for self-defence.
