Month: October 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, attended the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Finance Ministers’ Meeting in Incheon, Korea, today (October 21), and met with the Chair of the Meeting, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Korea, Mr Koo Yun-cheol.

This year’s meeting focused on key issues including global and regional economic situations and outlooks, digital finance, and fiscal policies of member economies.

Mr Chan spoke at various sessions of the meeting. During the session on the global and regional economic outlooks, he remarked that global growth momentum has weakened amid rising challenges from unilateralism and tariffs. He stressed that the global economy is facing heightened uncertainty, with some economies having to choose between co-operation and coercion, as well as between shared prosperity and narrow self-interest. Against this backdrop, Hong Kong, China remains firmly committed to upholding a free and open trade and investment environment, providing global enterprises and investors with a stable, consistent and predictable business environment. He called on all member economies to safeguard a rules-based multilateral trading system and to work together in promoting sustainable regional economic growth.

At the session on digital finance, Mr Chan highlighted that blockchain technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are rapidly advancing digital financial services. These technologies not only improve efficiency and reduce costs, but also play a key role in driving financial inclusion. Drawing on Hong Kong, China’s experience, he shared three key observations on developing a robust fintech ecosystem. First, financial innovation should serve the real economy. Strengthening data connectivity through public-private partnerships is essential to promoting inclusive and accessible financial services. For example, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority launched the Commercial Data Interchange (CDI), a platform that enables small and medium-sized enterprises to share business data with banks to facilitate credit assessment. To date, the CDI has supported over 60 000 loan applications with loans granted exceeding US$6.5 billion. Second, regulators should encourage innovation to drive market developments while maintaining effective oversight. Hong Kong’s financial regulatory bodies offer regulatory sandboxes that allow financial institutions and tech companies to test innovative fintech solutions, with feedback from regulators to help refine and improve these solutions before full-scale implementation. Third, in light of the increasingly widespread application of digital assets and AI in financial services, economies should place strong emphasis on ensuring that such innovations are responsible and sustainable – including the need to safeguard investor interests and maintain financial stability. Mr Chan stated that Hong Kong is actively engaged in cross-border co-operation and policy dialogue on digital finance, and stands ready to deepen collaboration with regional partners in these areas.

At the session on fiscal policy, Mr Chan shared Hong Kong, China’s economic strategy, which includes solidifying its strengths as an international financial and trading centre, while fostering growth of emerging industries such as innovation and technology. He also outlined the Government’s fiscal consolidation plan, which focuses primarily on containing expenditure growth, complemented by modest revenue measures based on user-pay and affordability principles. Meanwhile, it is leveraging private sector capital through public-private partnerships and bond issuances to expedite the development of the Northern Metropolis, injecting new impetus into economic development.

During the meeting, Mr Chan also held bilateral discussions with the Chair of the Meeting, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Korea, Mr Koo Yun-cheol, to discuss further co-operation in trade, finance, and innovation and technology.

Mr Chan will attend the joint session of APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting and Structural Reform Ministerial Meeting tomorrow morning (October 22), before departing for Beijing. He will lead a government delegation to visit the Beijing subsidiary administrative centre and the Xiong’an New Area in Hebei.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Hong Kong Customs yesterday (October 20) detected a drug trafficking case involving baggage concealment at Hong Kong International Airport and seized about 40 kilograms of suspected ketamine with an estimated market value of about $18 million.
 
A 32-year-old male passenger arrived in Hong Kong from Frankfurt, Germany, yesterday. During customs clearance, Customs officers found the batch of suspected ketamine in his two check-in suitcases. The man was subsequently arrested.
 
The arrested male has been charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. The case will be brought up at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (October 22).
 
Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.
 
Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.
 
Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.
 
Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, on his visit to Istanbul, Türkiye, on October 20 (Istanbul time) promoted Hong Kong’s unparalleled advantages and its role as a springboard to foster two-way investment and trade with a view to strengthening the partnership between Hong Kong and Türkiye.

     Mr Yau first met with the President of the Investment and Finance Office of the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye, Mr A Burak DaÄŸlıoÄŸlu, to brief him on Hong Kong’s latest economic and trade developments, and major measures to attract enterprises and investment to consolidate the city’s position as an international trade centre and business hub. He also introduced the latest establishment of the Task Force on Supporting Mainland Enterprises in Going Global in Hong Kong to assist Mainland enterprises in exploring overseas markets including the Turkish one. They also exchanged views on investment promotion strategies and enhancing collaboration between Hong Kong and Türkiye in various areas including the Belt and Road Initiative.

     Mr Yau then held a business roundtable with members of the Foreign Economic Relations Board of Türkiye to share with them Hong Kong’s unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle and latest initiatives such as the Northern Metropolis Development and e-commerce to inject economic impetus. In view of the changes in the global economic landscape, various economies are proactively exploring emerging markets to cope with challenges. He noted that Hong Kong is an ideal springboard for Turkish enterprises to tap into the Southeast Asian and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) markets, while at the same time serving as a key platform for Mainland companies seeking to expand their overseas business to go global via Hong Kong, boosting two-way trade and investment to benefit all.

     Mr Yau also paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Istanbul, Mr Davut Gül, to give him an update on Hong Kong’s latest developments in various fields and exchange views on business and trade collaboration between Hong Kong and Türkiye to forge closer bilateral ties. He also briefed him on the development of the GBA and the business opportunities it presents for Turkish enterprises.

     In the evening, Mr Yau attended a business dinner organised by Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council to promote Hong Kong’s premier business environment and unique advantages of being closely connected to both the Mainland and the world. Speaking to some 30 participating business leaders, he said that Türkiye and Hong Kong have very good bilateral trade relationships. The merchandise trade between the two places during the past five years has seen an average growth of about 4 per cent despite the unprecedented hit of the pandemic.

     Mr Yau noted that the two places are both important gateways in their respective regions. Hong Kong is at a strategic location, right at the centre of Asia, enabling the city to serve as the gateway to trade and investments in the Chinese Mainland and the Asian markets. He also shared with the guests Hong Kong’s strengths as the world’s fifth-largest trading entity (after the Chinese Mainland, the European Union, the United States and Japan), the third-ranked global financial centre, the biggest offshore Renminbi centre and the world’s freest economy, among others.

     He encouraged Turkish enterprises to set up their base of regional operations in Hong Kong to enjoy the preferential treatment under the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement to enter the vast Chinese Mainland market. He said that coupled with its simple and low tax system, free flow of capital and vibrant lifestyles and culture, Hong Kong is a stable, open and resilient international hub and a conduit to the Chinese Mainland and the broader Asian region for trade, investment, innovation and people-to-people exchange.

     Before the dinner, Mr Yau took the opportunity to meet with the Chinese Consul-General in Istanbul, Mr Wei Xiaodong, to keep him abreast of Hong Kong’s latest developments and efforts to deepen international co-operation and exchange.

     Mr Yau will depart for Tbilisi, Georgia, on October 21 (Istanbul time) to attend the Tbilisi Silk Road Forum.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Accompanied by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, a delegation led by Vice Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Mr Zhang Zhili today (October 21) visited the Aberdeen Wholesale Fish Market under the Fish Marketing Organization (FMO) to understand the production and wholesale of fisheries products in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and to exchange views on the development of agriculture and fisheries in both places.
 
Mr Tse welcomed the delegation and said that the HKSAR Government attaches great importance to the local agriculture and fisheries industries and promotes their sustainable development by complementing the direction of national development. The HKSAR Government will continue to implement measures under the Blueprint for the Sustainable Development of Agriculture and Fisheries to help fishermen/farmers switch to modernised and sustainable operation modes, attract more young people to join the industry, integrate into the development plan of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and enhance the quality, quantity, and output value of local agricultural and fisheries products in the long run.
 
The Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, Mr Mickey Lai, introduced to the delegation the Government’s work in supporting the development of the agriculture and fisheries industries, including developing deep-sea mariculture in new fish culture zones, launching the “Fish enJoy” Scheme to promote leisure fisheries, developing urban farming, and promoting the development of a multi-storey, modernised, and environmentally friendly pig farm by the industry.
 
Through inspecting the landing and sale of catches at the Aberdeen Wholesale Fish Market, the delegation understood that the FMO has been providing the fisheries industry with services such as wholesale of chilled fish and live seafood, supply of clean seawater, as well as promoting local fisheries products. All profits are then used to support the development of local fisheries, including improving market services and facilities and providing low-interest loans to fishermen. The delegation also met with local fishermen and tasted local processed speciality fisheries products.
 
The FMO, established under the Marine Fish (Marketing) Ordinance (Cap. 291), is a financially independent non-profit organisation led by the Director of Marketing, a post concurrently held by the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation. The Aberdeen Wholesale Fish Market is one of the busiest fish wholesale markets under the FMO. In 2024, the market handled approximately 4 970 tonnes of chilled marine fish and about 3 622 tonnes of live seafood, accounting for around 15 per cent and nearly 50 per cent of the FMO’s total wholesale volume, respectively.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of Dongjiang’s water supply to Hong Kong, the Water Supplies Department (WSD) organised the Good Water Good Fish Logo Design Competition with an aim of conveying an important message that local reservoirs being able to produce high-quality reservoir fish is attributable to the high-quality Dongjiang water stored in them. The competition attracted an overwhelming response, with nearly 500 entries received from Hong Kong and other places. Judging was held today (October 21), during which a champion, first runner-up, and second runner-up were selected. The adjudication panel comprised internationally renowned artist Dr Kan Tai-keung; Legislative Council Member (Tourism) Mr Perry Yiu; the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Water Supplies, Professor Joseph Kwan; the Director of Water Supplies, Mr Roger Wong; as well as representatives from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, the design industry, and the fisheries sector.
 
Mr Wong remarked that over the past 60 years, the country has mobilised a large amount of labour and resources to implement a number of expansion and improvement works as well as ecological conservation measures along the Dongjiang River Basin, in which development has been strictly restricted with activities such as quarrying, mining, and large-scale livestock farming prohibited within protected zones to safeguard the quality of Dongjiang water supplied to Hong Kong. Dongjiang water stored in local reservoirs in Hong Kong can thus nurture high-quality fish, with the traditional wisdom “To cultivate good fish, one must first maintain good water” being proved right. The number of entries for the competition has exceeded expectations, with many high-quality entries received. The winning entry will be used as the logo for high-quality fish products from local reservoirs.
 
The WSD regularly releases fish fry into local reservoirs and catches mature fish to maintain an ecological balance and preserve good water quality. The local Plover Cove Reservoir was registered as an accredited fish farm at the end of 2024 and received its organic aquaculture certification in August this year. The fish caught from this reservoir are recognised for their remarkable quality. To make efficient use of these resources in reservoirs and promote local high-quality fish products, the WSD is collaborating with the Fish Marketing Organization to produce umami fish soup products and 100 per cent local mud carp siu mai, which were first offered for sale at the Hong Kong Food Expo this August. Additionally, some fish products are donated to non-profit organisations to benefit the community.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The 2025 Hong Kong Youth Music Interflows, organised by the Music Office of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), will be held from November 18 to December 20. More than 200 bands and orchestras (Chinese Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, String Orchestra and Symphonic Band) from local primary and secondary schools will participate in the interflows to conduct musical exchanges and gain performing experience.
 
     More than 60 orchestras will participate in the six classes of the Chinese Orchestra Interflow at the Arena of Queen Elizabeth Stadium from November 18 to 21.
 
     Over 40 orchestras will take part in the Symphony Orchestra Interflow, with four classes to be held at the Concert Hall of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre from November 24 to 26.
 
     There will be about 50 orchestras performing in the four classes of the String Orchestra Interflow at the Auditorium of the Yuen Long Theatre from December 9 to 11.
 
     About 70 bands will take part in the six classes of the Symphonic Band Interflow at the Arena of Queen Elizabeth Stadium from December 16 to 19. The top two Gold Award Winners of each class in the Symphonic Band Interflow (if awarded) will be invited to compete for the Tom Lee Cup in the primary and secondary school categories at the Symphonic Band Extravaganza on December 20.
  
     Tickets for the Chinese Orchestra Interflow are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). Those for the Symphony Orchestra Interflow, String Orchestra Interflow, and Symphonic Band Interflow will be available from October 27, November 11 and November 17 onward respectively. Tickets for each performance are priced at $80. For primary school classes of both String Orchestra Interflow and Symphony Orchestra Interflow, each person can purchase a maximum of two tickets each time. Tickets for Symphonic Band Extravaganza will be available from December 16 onward, and each person can purchase a maximum of two tickets each time. For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288. For programme enquiries, please call 2598 0801 (String Orchestra Interflow and Symphony Orchestra Interflow), 2796 1003 (Symphonic Band Interflow) or 2158 6466 (Chinese Orchestra Interflow) or visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/mo/activities/musicactivities/hkymi/2025hkymi.html.
 
     The Chinese Orchestra Interflow under the 2025 Hong Kong Youth Music Interflows is one of the activities in the Chinese Culture Promotion Series. The LCSD has long been promoting Chinese history and culture through organising an array of programmes and activities to enable the public to learn more about the broad and profound Chinese culture. For more information, please visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/ccpo/index.html.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Details
2025-10-10
President Lai meets Saint Lucia Governor-General Errol Charles
On the afternoon of October 10, President Lai Ching-te met with Saint Lucia Governor-General Errol Charles and his wife. In remarks, President Lai thanked Saint Lucia for speaking up for Taiwan at various international fora and for its staunch support of Taiwan over the years. The president stated that faced with the convergence and expansion of authoritarianism around the world, our two nations stand together in the democratic community and share such universal values as freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights. He expressed hope that Taiwan and Saint Lucia will continue to expand and diversify cooperation in pursuit of mutual development and prosperity, further contributing to regional prosperity and advancement. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a pleasure to meet with Governor-General and First Lady Charles on our National Day. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I extend my sincerest welcome to you. This is Governor-General Charles’s first visit to Taiwan. His presence not only demonstrates the deep friendship between our nations but also injects new momentum into our common pursuit of a better future. I believe that this trip will provide Governor-General Charles with a more comprehensive understanding of Taiwan and do much to enhance our diplomatic ties. Governor-General Charles has abundant experience in human resources management and places great emphasis on youth empowerment and national education policies. Over many years, Taiwan has provided many types of scholarships for Saint Lucians. To date more than 200 Saint Lucian students have studied in Taiwan, and 44 more scholarship recipients have arrived this year. I hope that after completing their studies and returning home, these students can become an important force to spur progress in Saint Lucia. Young people are the hope of a nation; and an investment in youth is an investment in a nation’s future. That is why, this year, we launched the Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative and its Diplomatic Allies Inbound Track Program. As a result, three young Taiwanese are currently serving internships in Saint Lucian government agencies, and five young Saint Lucians are pursuing their dreams here in Taiwan. We hope that internships and cultural exchanges can broaden the horizons of the next generation. The creativity and innovation inspired in them can unlock unlimited possibilities for our nations’ futures.  Faced with the convergence and expansion of authoritarianism around the world, our two nations stand together in the democratic community and share such universal values as freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights. Over the years, Saint Lucia has spoken up for Taiwan at various international fora. And at this year’s United Nations General Assembly, Saint Lucian Minister for External Affairs, International Trade, Civil Aviation, and Diaspora Affairs Alva Baptiste emphasized that UNGA Resolution 2758 did not preclude Taiwan’s inclusion and participation in the UN system. We truly appreciate Saint Lucia’s staunch support for Taiwan. I look forward to Taiwan and Saint Lucia continuing to expand and diversify cooperation in pursuit of mutual development and prosperity. This will allow us to further contribute to regional prosperity and advancement. In closing, I once again welcome Governor-General and Lady Charles as you join us for our National Day celebrations. May you experience Taiwan’s warm hospitality and have a very rewarding visit. I look forward to our diplomatic ties continuing to deepen and advance.  Governor-General Charles then delivered remarks, first conveying greetings from the government and people of Saint Lucia. He said that he cannot express in words the elation they have just experienced on seeing this beautiful island nation for the first time, and on joining the 2025 National Day Celebration of the Republic of China. Already, he noted, they are moved by the welcoming arrangements here in Taiwan. Notwithstanding the full agenda planned for their stay, he said, he looks forward to sampling firsthand the vibrant culture of Taiwan and enjoying the people’s hospitality, as well as the sights and sounds of our cities. Governor-General Charles emphasized that the dilemma of size continues to make it difficult for small countries to achieve critical mass in any international forum, if only to be heard, and that this is a constant challenge for Saint Lucia. But, he said, they are not unsettled by this prospect, because they have friends like Taiwan by their side. As the world grows more insular with every passing day, he expressed his sincere wish, in the spirit of friendship and goodwill, that Saint Lucia and Taiwan will forge a path together towards a peaceful future and a brighter horizon. Governor-General Charles once again thanked the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan) for continued support and assistance to the government and people of Saint Lucia. He noted that they cherish and look forward to strengthening the bonds of our mutual friendship as we each strive to secure our sovereignty and move forward on the path of continued development and prosperity. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Saint Lucia Ambassador Robert Kennedy Lewis.

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2025-10-10
President Lai meets Governor-General Froyla Tzalam of Belize  
On the afternoon of October 10, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Governor-General Froyla Tzalam of Belize and her husband. In remarks, President Lai thanked the government and National Assembly of Belize for having long voiced support for Taiwan at international venues. The president stated that throughout the 36-year diplomatic partnership between Taiwan and Belize, our two nations have shared the universal values of democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights while deepening cooperation and achieving fruitful results in many areas. He expressed hope to work together to advance mutual prosperity and development and elevate our nations’ diplomatic alliance to new heights. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I am delighted to welcome Governor-General Tzalam and Mr. Daniel Mendez as they lead a delegation to Taiwan for the first time, and I thank them for traveling from afar to attend our Double Ten National Day celebrations. This demonstrates the importance that the Belizean government attaches to Taiwan and underscores the profound diplomatic friendship between our two nations. Belize is an important diplomatic ally of Taiwan in Central America. Throughout our 36-year diplomatic partnership, our two nations have shared the universal values of democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights. We have also deepened cooperation and achieved fruitful results in such areas as basic infrastructure, culture and education, women’s empowerment, public health, agricultural technology, and technological innovation. Together, we have promoted the construction of San Pedro General Hospital and social housing units, improved medical and social care environments in Belize, and advanced the well-being of the Belizean people. Furthermore, to nurture talent through education, Taiwan has provided scholarships and welcomed Belizean youth to Taiwan for their studies. We have also opened vocational training courses in Belize to help cultivate professional talent and promote industrial development. This year, we launched the Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative, the goal of which is to strengthen exchanges between our nations’ younger generations, foster mutual understanding, and add new momentum to our bilateral ties. In terms of economic and trade collaboration, last year, Belizean exports to Taiwan multiplied by a factor of more than 3.5, and Belize became Taiwan’s fourth largest source of lobster imports. This year, at the end of July, we further opened our market to tariff-free imports of frozen whiteleg shrimp and other products. Going forward, we will also promote cooperation on smart aquaculture. This will expand industrial upgrading and employment, highlighting the results of Taiwan’s integrated diplomacy. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the government and National Assembly of Belize for having long voiced support for Taiwan at international venues. Belize continues to show its backing at such international venues as the United Nations and the World Health Organization. In June, the House of Representatives passed a resolution to support a democratic Taiwan and strengthen bilateral bonds. These gestures demonstrate our profound friendship and mutual trust and will always be remembered by the people of Taiwan. I firmly believe that through Governor-General Tzalam’s visit, Taiwan and Belize will deepen cooperation in even more areas so as to advance mutual prosperity and development and elevate our nations’ diplomatic alliance to new heights. Governor-General Tzalam then delivered remarks, first offering good wishes and congratulations from the people and government of Belize on the country’s 114th National Day, and expressing gratitude for the hospitality they received. She stated that Belize has been a steadfast supporter of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in its quest for self-determination and to be allowed to participate in international fora with the full rights of a sovereign state, adding that Taiwan has much to share with the world. The governor-general noted that over the past three decades of bilateral relations, we have done much as partners sharing information on how to develop our nations. She said that Taiwan has supported Belize’s national educational needs; agricultural development; micro-, small-, medium-sized enterprises; strengthening risk management, and more. She also emphasized that the need to collaborate on global challenges such as pandemics, climate change, and environmental pollution is stronger than ever. Governor-General Tzalam stated that she can see Taiwan wants to do the right thing and invest not only in its people, but other like-minded countries. In a world that is chaotic and unpredictable, she said, stable governments in both of our countries and other partners can do much to ensure that robust institutions develop resiliency to deter conflict and instability. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Belize Ambassador Katherine Vanessa Meighan.  

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2025-10-10
President Lai hosts luncheon for Japanese Diet delegation visiting on 2025 National Day
On October 10, President Lai Ching-te hosted a luncheon for a delegation from the Japanese Diet visiting to take part in the 2025 National Day Celebration of the Republic of China (Taiwan). In remarks at the event, President Lai thanked members of the Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council for the deep friendship built up between Taiwan and Japan, which is an important driving force for improving bilateral relations. The president also thanked the Japanese government for emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait on many occasions at important international venues. He expressed hope that good friends on the council continue to deepen bilateral cooperation and take Taiwan-Japan friendship to a new level.  A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the members of the Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council. At a time when the Japanese government is undergoing a high-level reorganization, the council has overcome all obstacles to once again organize a large, cross-party delegation to visit Taiwan and participate in our National Day celebration. We are honored and touched by the sincere friendship the members have shown Taiwan. When Typhoon Ragasa inflicted heavy losses on Hualien last month, Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council Chairman Furuya Keiji, and other friends from Japan immediately conveyed their heartfelt concern for those affected by the disaster, and I would like to express my deepest thanks on behalf of the people of Taiwan. For over half a century, the Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council has been a strong bridge of friendship between Taiwan and Japan. Under Chairman Furuya’s leadership, members of the council have long spoken out for Taiwan in the Japanese Diet and shown key leadership capabilities in promoting Taiwan-Japan relations through deeper exchanges in various fields. In addition to thanking all of the members once again for supporting Taiwan, I also hope that through our joint efforts, we can consolidate the Taiwan-Japan relationship. Taiwan and Japan exemplify the adage that “a friend in need is a friend indeed.” We have supported each other when disasters struck, and as an interdependent community with a shared destiny, we have jointly faced geopolitical challenges. I therefore want to thank the Japanese government for emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait on many occasions at important international venues, receiving support from like-minded countries, including this year’s US-Japan summit, G7 foreign ministers’ meeting, bilateral talks between Japan and the NATO Secretary-General, and Japan-EU summit. These events all show that the international community has already reached a high level of consensus regarding maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and opposing unilateral changes to the status quo. The deep friendship between Taiwan and Japan built up by the Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council is an important driving force for improving bilateral relations. I look forward to our good friends on the council continuing to deepen bilateral cooperation, and taking Taiwan-Japan friendship to a new level. Lastly, I want to thank Chairman Furuya for organizing a large celebratory delegation to Taiwan every year, this year included, and for returning to Japan immediately after the event to address political developments, which is truly admirable. House of Representatives Member Sasaki Hajime then delivered remarks on behalf of Chairman Furuya, first congratulating Taiwan on National Day and saying he was honored to come to Taiwan again to participate in National Day celebrations and attend a banquet hosted by our president and vice president. He said he was deeply impressed by President Lai’s earlier remarks in his National Day address regarding ways to deepen democracy, maintain economic growth, and strengthen the nation, and also expressed wholehearted support for the president’s approach in “maintaining peace through strength” and appeal to citizens for unity. On behalf of the council, Representative Sasaki expressed his deepest condolences for the disaster victims of Typhoon Ragasa in Hualien, and House of Representatives Member Kaneko Yasushi, the delegation’s deputy leader, presented a list of disaster relief donors to President Lai. Representative Sasaki continued, saying that buoy equipment is expected to arrive from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism on October 17 in Taiwan, where it will be used for monitoring water levels in reservoirs, demonstrating Japan’s support for disaster prevention cooperation with Taiwan. Representative Sasaki mentioned that the council has six internal research groups that actively conduct various activities to promote Taiwan-Japan relations, and that there are several female members of the Diet visiting Taiwan on this trip for exchanges. He mentioned that the council also previously promoted an amendment to Japanese law that, since May, has allowed Taiwanese spouses to designate their nationality as “Taiwan” in Japan’s family registry system, demonstrating Japan’s respect for and acknowledgement of Taiwan. He went on to say that the council will continue to promote multi-level exchanges involving local governments and legislative bodies, as well as educational trips for middle school students, to increase mutual visits and understanding for people from both countries. In addition, he said, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership research group will continue to promote economic cooperation. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s establishment of a fab in Kumamoto, he said, symbolizes that Taiwan-Japan economic cooperation has entered a new era, and he added that we can further deepen our partnership in areas such as economic security, energy, and the strengthening of supply chains. Representative Sasaki stated that on this trip to Taiwan, the council’s representative delegation also exchanged views on issues such as countering disinformation, media literacy, and fact-checking. Last week’s Taiwan-Japan Economic Partnership Committee meeting, he said, also made progress on issues such as digital trade, disaster prevention, and e-commerce. In terms of cultural exchanges, Representative Sasaki noted that this year marks the 100th anniversary of the National Palace Museum and said that Chairman Furuya will present the museum with Mino ware works from his hometown. Representative Sasaki emphasized that Japan is well aware that Taiwan is facing pressure and threats from China, making Taiwan’s external environment increasingly fraught, and that we cannot allow “Taiwan to have a problem.” He stated that Japan will work closely with democratic partners in Taiwan, the United States, Australia, and Europe to jointly safeguard universal values such as freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. Representative Sasaki closed his remarks by wishing Taiwan prosperity and good fortune and expressing hope that friendly exchanges between Taiwan and Japan will continue to deepen. Also in attendance were Japanese House of Representatives Member Komiyama Yasuko, House of Representatives Member Azuma Toru, House of Representatives Member Nishime Kosaburo, House of Councillors Member Kitamura Tsuneo, House of Representatives Member Fukushima Nobuyuki, House of Representatives Member Nagasaka Yasumasa, House of Representatives Member Kokuba Konosuke, House of Representatives Member Hiranuma Shojiro, House of Representatives Member Watanabe Shu, House of Councillors Member Ejima Kiyoshi, House of Councillors Member Aoyama Shigeharu, House of Councillors Member Matsukawa Rui, House of Representatives Member Kitagami Keiro, House of Representatives Member Oonishi Kensuke, House of Representatives Member Shinohara Go, House of Councillors Member Shiomura Ayaka, House of Representatives Member Fujimaki Kenta, House of Representatives Member Shimada Tomoaki, House of Representatives Member Nishioka Yoshitaka, House of Representatives Member Takahashi Hideaki, House of Representatives Member Kishida Mitsuhiro, House of Representatives Member Yoshikawa Rina, House of Councillors Member Harada Hidekazu, and House of Councillors Member Yamanaka Sen.

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2025-10-09
President Lai meets 2025 Taipei Security Dialogue participants
On the morning of October 9, President Lai Ching-te met with participants in the 2025 Taipei Security Dialogue. In remarks, President Lai stated that in face of the challenges posed by expansion of authoritarianism and rapid technological developments, the democratic community’s solidarity and response is even more important. The president emphasized that Taiwan will continue to ensure peace through strength and boost security through cooperation, and will work together with friends and allies to advance democracy, peace, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: First, I want to welcome our guests, many of whom traveled from afar to attend the 2025 Taipei Security Dialogue, bringing many years of experience and knowledge in the security field. They also brought the warmth of their friendship, showing support for Taiwan through concrete action. In recent years, the global order has faced severe challenges as a result of the continued expansion of authoritarianism and rapid technological developments, testing the global democratic community’s solidarity and response. This has made the Taipei Security Dialogue all the more important. With its theme of Integrated Deterrence: Maintaining Peace through Strength in the Indo-Pacific, this year’s forum focused on such issues as the international landscape, the impact of emerging technologies, the strengthening of social resilience, and Taiwan’s strategic role. The event not only facilitated academic exchanges and policy discussions but also provided an important opportunity for like-minded countries to jointly address challenges and pursue peace. I would like to thank our distinguished guests for sharing their valuable experiences and insights, which helps deepen cooperation among democracies. I also thank former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, American Conservative Union Chairman Matt Schlapp, American Defense International Chairman Van Hipp Jr., and all our guests here today, for repeatedly speaking up and voicing support for Taiwan. Standing on the frontline of authoritarian threat, Taiwan aspires to consolidate the strength of democratic partners to advance stable development throughout the Indo-Pacific. I also commend Chairman Huoh Shoou-yeh (霍守業) of the Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR) and the INDSR team for organizing the Taipei Security Dialogue and for making Taiwan’s national security strategy better known in the international community. Moving forward, Taiwan will continue to strengthen its national defense capabilities, enhance whole-of-society defense and resilience, and boost our national security capabilities across the board. Defense spending, as it is defined by NATO, will exceed 3 percent of GDP next year, and is expected to reach 5 percent of GDP by 2030, demonstrating Taiwan’s firm resolve to defend itself and that it is working to fulfill its responsibility to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We will actively develop our asymmetric capabilities, build a smart defense combat system, promote a more competitive national defense industry, and further enhance whole-of-society resilience. These efforts aim not only to ensure that Taiwan is capable of defending the values of freedom and democracy; they will also allow us to remain a trustworthy partner in security cooperation with friends and allies as we jointly safeguard regional peace and stability. Ensuring peace through strength and boosting security through cooperation is our goal. Taiwan will continue to advance exchanges and collaboration with other countries in such fields as national security, disaster prevention and relief, and technological development. I look forward to our guests continuing to support Taiwan. Let us all work together to advance democracy, peace, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.  Former Prime Minister Morrison then delivered remarks, saying that they are here on this visit as friends, supporters, and advocates for Taiwan, adding that they particularly want to convey their sincere best wishes for Taiwan’s National Day. He noted that the members of the delegation come from the United States, Europe, and within the Indo-Pacific itself, including Japan and Australia. Their presence here, he underlined, shows the international community’s strong resolve and support for the case of Taiwan. The former prime minister also acknowledged President Lai’s strong leadership and resilience in seeking to advance national defense, maintain peace across the Taiwan Strait, and ensure the prosperity of Taiwan. He also expressed support and best wishes for President Lai in seeking to achieve national unity on national security and regional peace. Former Prime Minister Morrison said that their discussions at the Taipei Security Dialogue have focused on ensuring maritime security, building up missile defenses and drone defenses, and indigenous defense capabilities. He also noted the great progress Taiwan is making in these areas, and especially in building the resilience of the Taiwanese population. He reiterated that they will continue to advocate for Taiwan and explain in their respective countries that Taiwan matters, adding that it matters not only for Taiwan but for security, sovereignty, and freedom around the world. He emphasized that the international community should learn the hard lessons of Ukraine and, coming together in solidarity, apply them to avoid those outcomes here in Taiwan and maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. 

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2025-10-08
President Lai meets Paraguayan Chamber of Deputies President Raúl Luis Latorre Martínez
On the morning of October 8, President Lai Ching-te met with President of the Chamber of Deputies of Paraguay Raúl Luis Latorre Martínez. In remarks, President Lai thanked Paraguay for its longstanding support for Taiwan’s international participation. The president stated that Taiwan and Paraguay have a brotherly bond and are united by a shared commitment to freedom and democracy. He added that Taiwan and Paraguay have had fruitful collaboration across a wide range of areas, including education, agriculture and animal husbandry, infrastructure, women’s empowerment, healthcare, and technology. He expressed hope of working with Paraguay to meet the challenges of the new era, safeguard democracy and freedom, and contribute even more to global peace and prosperity. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: I would like to start by giving a warm welcome to Chamber President Latorre and the cross-party delegation of representatives he is leading to join our National Day celebrations in Taiwan. Your presence demonstrates the Paraguayan Congress’s strong support for Taiwan and further strengthens the friendship between our two countries. In 2023, I attended President Santiago Peña Palacios’s inauguration as special envoy for former President Tsai Ing-wen, during which time I had the opportunity to dine with Chamber President Latorre and Chairman Juan Manuel Añazco Vera of the Chamber of Deputies Foreign Affairs Committee, which left a deep impression on me. Last year, Chamber President Latorre also visited Taiwan to attend the inauguration of myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao. I am very pleased to meet and connect with him again in Taiwan today. I want to thank Chamber President Latorre and all the distinguished guests for their longstanding support of Taiwan. Chamber President Latorre, in particular, has advocated for Taiwan at numerous international venues, and the Paraguayan Congress continues to demonstrate staunch support for Taiwan’s international participation through declarations and other measures, for which the people of Taiwan are deeply moved. Also, in this year’s General Debate at the UN General Assembly, President Peña spoke out in support of Taiwan, emphasizing that doing the right thing is priceless, and that Taiwan must have a place in that forum. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to express our sincere gratitude. In recent years, with the support of the Paraguayan government and Congress, Taiwan and Paraguay have had fruitful collaborations across a wide range of areas, including education, agriculture and animal husbandry, infrastructure, and women’s empowerment. Through our joint efforts, a Health Information System has been implemented in over 1,000 public healthcare facilities in Paraguay to improve the quality of medical services. To date, Taiwan-Paraguay Polytechnic University has trained 174 outstanding young Paraguayans, and the Taiwan-Paraguay Smart Technology Park – recently relaunched and upgraded – has drawn attention from Taiwanese companies, facilitating greater industrial collaboration between our countries. Going forward, we will continue to promote various collaborative initiatives to maximize the well-being of both our peoples. Taiwan and Paraguay have a brotherly bond and are united by the shared values of freedom and democracy. In the early 1990s, both our countries embarked on the path to democratization, ushering in a new chapter through democratic elections. Today, in the face of authoritarian expansion and a rapidly changing international landscape, I look forward to our countries working together to meet the challenges of this new era, safeguard freedom and democracy, and contribute even more to global peace and prosperity. May the friendship between our countries continue to thrive and both nations enjoy lasting prosperity. Chamber President Latorre then delivered remarks, stating that he is leading a 16-member delegation, which is the largest and most representative from Paraguay’s Chamber of Deputies to ever visit Taiwan. He emphasized that the delegation, which includes members from across the political spectrum, sends a clear message: Paraguay will always stand with Taiwan as a friend and an ally because Taiwan is committed to upholding the values of freedom, sovereignty, and democracy, which are principles on which Paraguay will never compromise. He noted that Paraguay will continue to advocate for Taiwan in international venues. Chamber President Latorre said that the friendship and partnership between Paraguay and Taiwan have grown stronger with time, and there remains great potential for further collaboration and development. He highlighted Paraguay’s leading strengths in clean energy and agriculture, noting that Paraguayan pork, now exported to Taiwan tariff-free, has become highly popular among Taiwanese consumers. He added that Paraguay is a nation full of opportunities, with advantages such as a low-tax environment, a young and dynamic population, and strong potential for development in the AI industry. He expressed confidence that future collaboration with Taiwanese industries will open new horizons for both countries. Chamber President Latorre stated that Paraguay, having endured the trials of war, deeply values peace, and it was for this reason that Paraguay was among the first to condemn China’s military incursions in the airspace and waters around Taiwan. Morally and geopolitically, he continued, Paraguay firmly stands alongside like-minded nations in defending the shared values of freedom, democracy, and sovereignty. Although Taiwan and Paraguay sit on opposite sides of the world, he said, the two have never been closer than they are today. Chamber President Latorre emphasized that all the delegation members hope to further deepen the friendship and brotherly ties between our two countries. Also present at the meeting were President of the Paraguayan Parliamentary Commission of Friendship – Republic of China (Taiwan) Rodrigo Daniel Gamarra Krayacich and his wife, members of the Chamber of Deputies of Paraguay including Carlos María Arrechea Ortiz, Marcelo Rafael Salinas González, Daniel Fernando Centurión González, Hilda María Del Rocío Vallejo Ávalos, Miguel Ángel Del Puerto Silva, Rodrigo Daniel Blanco Amarilla, Héctor Rubén Figueredo Notario, María Constancia Benítez de Benítez, Graciela Aguilera Ruiz Díaz, Alejandro Darío Aguilera Elizaur, and Sebastián Emilio Remesowski Squef. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Paraguay Ambassador Darío Filártiga Ruiz Díaz.

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2025-10-10
President Lai delivers 2025 National Day Address
President Lai Ching-te on the morning of October 10 attended the ROC’s 114th Double Tenth National Day Celebration in the plaza fronting the Presidential Office Building, and delivered an address titled “A New Taiwan Rises in a Time of Change.” A translation of the president’s address follows: National Day Celebration Chairperson Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜), Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), Her Excellency the Governor-General of Belize Froyla Tzalam and Mr. Daniel Mendez, His Excellency the Governor-General of St. Lucia Errol Charles and First Lady Anysia Charles, President of the Chamber of Deputies of the Republic of Paraguay Raúl Latorre, Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council Chairman Furuya Keiji, heads of delegations from diplomatic allies and friendly nations, members of the foreign diplomatic corps in Taiwan, distinguished guests from home and abroad, and my fellow citizens here in person and watching on TV or online: Good morning. Today is the National Day of the Republic of China, and while we gather every year to celebrate the nation’s birthday, this year is an especially significant one. It is a historic year for Taiwan’s democratization. One month ago, September 10, was the historic date when the number of days Taiwan had spent free from martial law officially surpassed the number of days endured under its stifling rule. This signifies that we have parted entirely from an authoritarian regime and its shadow, and have ushered in a democratic future full of hope. We will not forget the blood and tears of those who united to defend against aggression, nor will we forget the selfless sacrifices of past generations in pursuit of democracy and freedom, granting sovereignty to the people. Those stories, which have become woven into the fabric of our land, are our collective memory. Democratic Taiwan, forged through untold hardships, is what most clearly positions the 23 million people of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu in this world. Taiwan is a beacon of democracy in Asia. For every person still living in darkness under authoritarian rule, we forever shine the light of hope. This year also saw Taiwan’s rise. Nations around the world are suffering drastic changes and challenges, and Taiwan is no exception. In addition to the Russia-Ukraine war, turmoil in the Middle East, and China’s continued military expansion, the United States’ tariff policy has delivered a blow to economies and industries alike. But the people of Taiwan are still on their feet. And not only that – this year’s economic performance greatly impressed the global community. According to the Asian Development Bank’s latest report, Taiwan’s economic growth rate this year leapt from 3.3 to 5.1 percent, leading the Four Asian Tigers and surpassing China. Taiwanese exports have continued to reach record highs, and employment is at its best in 25 years. Our stock market has also risen for six consecutive months, hitting an all-time high of 27,301 points. Taiwan’s market capitalization has topped US$3 trillion, making our stock market the world’s eighth largest, and foreign exchange reserves surpassed US$600 billion for the first time, setting a new record. In the midst of adversity, we remain undaunted. In the midst of challenges, we grow ever stronger. These are achievements that the people of Taiwan made together. Let us all celebrate them!  These impressive economic accomplishments also reflect the stellar record of Taiwan’s semiconductor, ICT, electronic component, and other leading industries. Their advantageous position in the global supply chain is the result of long-term key policies for the development of technological and manufacturing capabilities, unique business models, and government-led science parks. This is a monumental industrial achievement forged by decades of combined efforts, and it belongs to all the people of Taiwan. As president, it is my mission to protect these valuable assets and use them to boost Taiwan’s and even worldwide industrial and economic growth, helping to create even better lives for people in Taiwan and around the world. This is also the direction Taiwan is taking. Of course, we will certainly not ignore the formidable challenges in this time of global change, and the risks they pose to different industries, different fields, and groups of different backgrounds. Many of the champions, traditional industries, and micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) leading Taiwan’s economic growth from behind the scenes are facing the pressure of the digital and net-zero transition. Many workers feel concerned and uneasy about job opportunities, salaries, commodity prices, and cost of living in the face of the AI wave. Farmers are also being impacted by an aging rural population and market liberalization. The government will not take these challenges lightly, and will not ignore the impact they have on each and every citizen. It is our responsibility to put our full effort into assisting traditional industries, MSMEs, working families, and those in the agricultural and fishing industries. Therefore, in addition to having proposed a 93-billion-NT-dollar tariff impact support plan to help enterprises, workers, and those in the agricultural and fishing industries weather this difficult time, the government will also be investing tens of billions of dollars each year to help MSMEs introduce AI into their work so they can move toward digital and net-zero upgrading and transformation and address challenges. For traditional machine tools, screws and nuts, and other industries that are facing difficulties, we will also be proposing separate countermeasures to actively help boost competitiveness and expand the market. My fellow citizens, times of change are also times of opportunity. Taiwan’s economic performance is clear for all to see, and our key position in the global supply chain can neither be challenged nor replaced. In the face of change, we must not doubt ourselves or waver, but seize opportunities with confidence and bravely follow through. We must not be complacent or turn back, but even more proactively forge ahead in the world. A Taiwan that is certain will serve as an important, reliable, and steady force for an uncertain world. Moving ahead, we will adopt three major strategies in order to ensure the Republic of China Taiwan’s competitive advantage: First, we will expand investment in Taiwan. Our Three Major Programs for Investing in Taiwan have yielded substantial results. Investment has surpassed NT$2.5 trillion, creating over 160,000 job opportunities. In July, the Executive Yuan extended the programs to 2027 while also expanding applicable industries and eligibility to include overseas Taiwanese businesses worldwide and foreign investing enterprises. The government is continuing to optimize the investment environment, adding NT$720 billion in new loans to attract investment in Taiwan and bring in an estimated NT$1.2 trillion in capital and 80,000 more job opportunities. Besides having good work, we should also have good lives. With this in mind, the government launched the Trillion NT Dollar Investment National Development Plan to encourage copious investment of private capital in public infrastructure through innovative public-private partnerships. It expands funding for construction while at the same time promoting critical infrastructure projects across counties and cities nationwide, in areas such as water, electricity, housing, education, healthcare, culture, tourism, and transportation. This will help meet local residents’ needs so they can live happy lives, and enable industries and spheres of living to develop in a complementary way so that we can achieve our goal of a balanced Taiwan. Second, we will deepen international economic and trade cooperation, and expand our global presence. This year, Taiwan and the United Kingdom, under the framework of our Enhanced Trade Partnership arrangement, additionally signed three pillar arrangements in investment, digital trade, and energy and net-zero. This marks a new milestone for Taiwan-UK economic and trade relations, showing our mutual commitment to high international trade standards and laying the foundation for cooperation in technology, advanced manufacturing, and other strategic industries. Moving ahead, Taiwan will sign bilateral economic and trade cooperation agreements with even more friends and allies while upholding the principle of mutual benefits. We will also actively engage in reciprocal tariff negotiations with the US to secure a reasonable rate, resolve the trade deficit between Taiwan and the US, and deepen industrial cooperation. This will enable Taiwan’s economic development to become more globally connected and thereby make great strides. Third, we are building a chain of “guardian mountains” to shore up Taiwan’s industrial capabilities. In this digital age, we will implement 10 new AI infrastructure initiatives. In addition to helping make Taiwan one of the world’s top five computing centers, we will also invest more vigorously in R&D in three key technological fields: quantum technology, silicon photonics, and robotics. This will facilitate the introduction of AI tools in different sectors and professions, and promote the application of AI in various fields, helping Taiwan move toward an era of comprehensive smart technology and continue to maintain its leading position in global tech development. We are also building Taiwan into a hub in Asia for asset management. This will not only help retain trillions in Taiwanese capital, but attract investment in Taiwan with international capital, promoting growth in the financial industry, creating quality job opportunities, and strengthening Taiwan. The biopharmaceutical industry is a key national industry and has thus been included in our National Project of Hope. We are also developing toward greater use of precision health in health maintenance, preventive medicine, diagnosis, treatment, and care, giving our nation durable competitiveness and advancing the well-being of our people. Next year, our National Infectious Diseases Bank will be completed, and Taiwan will continue stepping up its cooperation with other countries in the field of biotechnology. Through our program for investment in smart healthcare innovation and entrepreneurship, with its budget of NT$10 billion, we will encourage more firms to invest in innovative R&D, expand investment, and move the biomedical industry toward becoming a trillion-NT-dollar industry, which will be one more guardian mountain for our nation. My fellow citizens, Taiwan is for all the people of Taiwan. We are well aware that no matter how impressive our economic performance may be, we must not overlook anyone on this land. The fruits of our economic growth should be enjoyed by all our people. Good numbers should translate into good lives, with no one left behind. Helping our citizens stay healthy, nurturing young talent, creating an even better environment for the younger generation, and providing greater support for young families is the government’s absolute responsibility. The Healthy Taiwan Cultivation Plan, launched this year, is improving the medical environment and system overall and will ensure higher quality healthcare services for all citizens. Also this year, we officially established the Ministry of Sports, ushering in a new era of sports for all, competitive sports, and professional sports. With this new ministry, we aim to ensure that all athletes receive full national support so that they can pursue their dreams on the global stage, winning national glory. In addition, to support our young people, we are providing free tuition for high schools and vocational schools, and an NT$35,000 annual tuition subsidy for students of private junior colleges, colleges, and universities. Our Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative, which supports young people aged 15 to 30 in pursuing their dreams abroad, is officially underway. Moreover, for renters, the government provides NT$30 billion in annual rent subsidies. Unmarried renters with an annual income below NT$626,000, families of four with a combined annual income below NT$1.641 million, and households with three generations living together with a combined annual income below NT$2.1245 million will be exempt from individual income tax. We will also provide even greater support to the young parents in our society. In addition to promoting version 2.0 of our national childcare policy for ages 0–6, with increased childcare allowances and expanded childcare subsidies, starting next year, the government will provide an increased birth subsidy of NT$100,000 per child. Nor do our senior citizens need to worry. Next year, with the launch of Long-Term Care 3.0, the government will work hard to ensure that all seniors receive more convenient, more comprehensive care. Our goal is to ensure that all to whom the nation belongs – our children, young people, parents, and grandparents – receive better care so that they can face the future with greater confidence. This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The lessons of World War II are still fresh in our memory. The ambitions of the aggressors in that conflict caused widespread devastation and loss of life. In today’s world, authoritarianism continues to expand and the international order faces severe challenges. Regional order in the Taiwan Strait, East China Sea, and South China Sea, and even the security of the entire first island chain, are under serious threat. Democratic Taiwan is a crucial link for the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific and a responsible member of the international community. As such, Taiwan will work to uphold the status quo, ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and promote the prosperous development of the region. We look forward to the day when China can take responsibility as a major power and cease its distortion of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and historical World War II documents. We also hope it will renounce the use of force or coercion to change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait so that we can jointly maintain the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific. Looking back at World War II, we see that so many experienced the suffering of war and the pain of invasion. We should learn from these lessons and ensure that the tragedies of history are never repeated. The outcomes of that conflict tell us that aggression fails, unity prevails, and that peace is won through strength. I want to declare to our citizens and the international community: At the end of this year, we will be proposing a special budget for national defense. Defense spending, as it is defined by NATO, will exceed 3 percent of GDP next year, and will reach 5 percent of GDP by 2030, showing our determination to safeguard the nation. The increase in defense spending has a purpose; it is a clear necessity to counter enemy threats and a driving force for developing our defense industries. Through our new defense budget, we aim to achieve three major goals: First, we will accelerate our building of the T-Dome, establish a rigorous air defense system in Taiwan with multi-layered defense, high-level detection, and effective interception, and weave a safety net for Taiwan to protect the lives and property of citizens. Second, we will advance the integration of high-tech and AI technologies to build a smart defense combat system, maximizing effective deterrence for our asymmetric strategy. Third, we will continue to invest in innovative defense technologies and collaborate with the military industries of advanced nations to bolster our defense industry capabilities. We will strengthen our domestic supply chains through local R&D, design, and manufacturing. This will enable Taiwan to accelerate industry upgrades, enhance the resilience of our military equipment, and boost the capacity of our defense industry. In that way, Taiwan, becoming a trusted security partner for our friends and allies, can jointly avoid the red supply chain and foster trust in defense among free and democratic countries, while building a robust line of defense to safeguard the values of freedom and democracy. We are determined to maintain peace through strength. We firmly believe that strength is not obtained through military strength alone, but must also rely on resilience throughout society. Over the past year, through the efforts of the Office of the President Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee, we have built up greater strength between the government and private sector, and between the central and local governments. We have integrated disaster prevention and defense to strengthen military-civilian cooperation. We have also continued to strengthen resilience in civilian training, energy, healthcare, information and communications networks, and finance, comprehensively enhancing our ability to respond to various crises. I want to emphasize that building societal defense and resilience requires every ounce of effort. Last month, we released our updated national public safety guide, which includes strategies for responding to various natural disasters and even extreme scenarios such as a military invasion. We plan to gradually ensure that each and every household has access to this safety guide, because only when all of society participates and learns to help themselves and one another can Taiwan develop greater resilience to face all kinds of challenges. My fellow citizens, over the past year, we have faced numerous challenges together, but the people of Taiwan never give up hope. Whenever a crisis arises, we always see numerous Taiwanese standing on the frontline, selflessly dedicating themselves to the nation they love. Just last month we saw two very moving scenes. The first was at the UN General Assembly held in New York, where many members of the overseas Taiwanese community raised money and launched a fundraising campaign to light up Times Square with advertisements to “Chip in with Taiwan,” promoting Taiwan’s participation, and advocating that we are “Better Together.” It touched the hearts of people around the world. The second was the tens of thousands of volunteers who, after the Fata’an Creek barrier lake disaster, slipped on their rain boots, shouldered their shovels, and traveled great distances to provide relief to help the affected residents of Hualien return to normal life as soon as possible.  These “superheroes with shovels” did more than dig out heavy mud and sludge to help disaster victims return home; these heroes also uncovered a light – a light of hope that warmed every heart it touched. More than that, they proved the remarkable resilience of the Taiwanese people and their resolve to protect our homeland in the face of crisis. Now, let us all thank these superheroes of disaster relief, who come from all walks of life and from all over the country, as well as friends from abroad and the military, police, firefighters, and central and local government personnel who devoted themselves to the relief effort. This spontaneous nationwide movement is absolutely unique in the world, and for that the world will remember: Taiwan, that small mountainous country, is truly compassionate, and truly great! Moving forward, I will continue to lead the country, hearts united, without fear of hardship or challenge, bravely, toward an even better tomorrow. Let’s keep going, Taiwan! Let’s keep going, Republic of China! Let’s keep going, Republic of China Taiwan! Thank you.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Buildings Department approved six building plans in August – two in Kowloon and four in the New Territories.

Of the approved plans, three were for apartment and apartment-commercial developments, two were for commercial developments, and one was for a community services development.

Consent was given for works to start on 11 building projects which, when completed, will provide 175,707 square metres of gross floor area for domestic use, involving 3,116 units, and 37,338 sq m of gross floor area for non-domestic use.

Additionally, the department has received notification of the commencement of superstructure works for 13 building projects.

It also issued 13 occupation permits – four on Hong Kong Island, five in Kowloon and four in the New Territories.

The buildings certified for occupation comprise 39,922 sq m of gross floor area for domestic use, involving 592 units, and 298,335 sq m for non-domestic use.

Meanwhile, the department received 2,716 reports about unauthorised building works in August and issued 504 removal orders.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region