President Lai Calls for "Democracy ,Economy, Technology" Synergy at 2026 Yushan Forum

Source: Office Of The Preident, Taiwan

President Ching-Te Lai attended the opening ceremony of the "2026 Yushan Forum – Indo-Pacific Partnership Prospects: Taiwan's Values, Technology, and Resilience" today (16 March), where President Lai stated that Taiwan will work closely with its democratic partners to enhance supply chain security and economic resilience through the synergistic effect of "democracy, economy, and technology." President Lai emphasized that such cooperation would help uphold a shared " Democratic Umbrella," promoting democracy, peace, and prosperity worldwide.

In his English remarks, President Lai welcomed international guests from across the Indo-Pacific region and Europe, noting that this year marks the ninth edition of the Yushan Forum. Among the distinguished attendees was Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former Polish President Lech Wałęsa, who founded the Solidarity trade union in 1980 and played a pivotal role in advancing Poland's democratization and reform, demonstrating the power of unity.

President Lai noted that in Taiwanese culture, the number "9" symbolizes longevity and sustainability. At a time of global uncertainty, he said, the gathering of nations to exchange ideas and pursue cooperation carries profound significance for both Taiwan and the international community. Building on the New Southbound Policy, Taiwan will continue to deepen cooperation with partner countries under the initiative, nations across the Indo-Pacific, and democratic partners worldwide. Through this effort, Taiwan seeks to establish a broader and deeper network of partnerships while contributing concretely to regional prosperity and resilience.

Regarding economic strategy, President Lai highlighted that Taiwan has significantly reduced its dependence on the Chinese market. In 2010, 83.8% of Taiwan's outbound investment was directed toward China; by last year, that figure had fallen to 3.75%, the lowest level on record. At the same time, Taiwanese corporate investment in the European Union has grown by 650% over the past decade. The United States became Taiwan's largest export market last year, with exports to the U.S. increasing by 78%, while exports to New Southbound Policy partner countries rose by 30.5%, demonstrating the effectiveness of Taiwan’s diversified market strategy.

President Lai also underscored Taiwan's strengths in the technology sector, including its world-leading advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes and robust IC design capabilities. In response to the emerging artificial intelligence era, Taiwan is actively advancing 3 key technologies: silicon photonics, quantum technology, and robotics. Taiwan is also committed to building a non–"red" global semiconductor supply chain, continuing to drive technological innovation worldwide.

On regional security, President Lai emphasized that peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are essential foundations for global security and prosperity. In the face of evolving geopolitical dynamics and increasing gray-zone threats, Taiwan will continue to cooperate with democratic partners to strengthen deterrence. Taiwan's defense budget has reached 3.32% of GDP this year, with plans to increase it to 5% by 2030, while accelerating the development of asymmetric defense capabilities and enhancing whole-of-society resilience.

In closing, President Lai stated that Taiwan stands ready to share its experiences and make greater contributions to the international community and invited global partners to collaborate with Taiwan in realizing a shared vision of democracy, peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.

Source: Office Of The Preident, Taiwan