Taiwan President Lai Ching-te attended the National Day celebration event in the evening of the 9th, expressing that with the joint efforts of Taiwan people at home and abroad, Taiwan has gradually stepped onto the global stage. However, for a strong and good country, it is crucial that the well-being of the people is reflected. President Lai hoped for all citizens to share the fruits of the economy, unite and cooperate, transforming Taiwan’s achievements into genuine happiness for the people.
During the event, President Lai Ching-te attended the “115th National Day Celebration (2026)”, along with Legislative Yuan Speaker and Chairman of the National Day Preparatory Committee Han Kuo-yu, Premier Chuo Jung-tai, Minister of the Interior Liu Shi-fang, Acting Chairperson of the Overseas Community Affairs Council Lee Yan-Hui, Deputy Minister of Culture Hsu Yi-chun, Mayor of New Taipei City Hou You-yi, and representatives of diplomats from various countries in Taiwan.
In his speech, President Lai Ching-te mentioned that the 10th is the 115th National Day of the Republic of China. He was pleased to gather in New Taipei City this evening to celebrate the country together. He expressed gratitude to Legislative Yuan Speaker Han Kuo-yu for leading the organizing team of the celebration, New Taipei City Mayor Hou You-yi for heading the city government team to work hard on the National Day event. He also thanked Premier Chuo Jung-tai, Minister of the Interior Liu Shi-fang, and relevant departments for the budget allocation and strong support to ensure the smooth progress of the event. President Lai acknowledged the efforts of Acting Chairperson of the Overseas Community Affairs Council Lee Yan-Hui and colleagues for arranging thousands of overseas compatriots to return to Taiwan to celebrate the national birthday together. He also appreciated all performers and backstage workers for their hard work.
President Lai emphasized that as the country’s capabilities grow, the pace of caring for the people should accelerate. Not only should efforts be made to help all industries upgrade and drive salary growth for all, but also to let the whole population share the benefits of the economy. With the spirit of “social investment”, the government aims to lessen the burden on families in terms of living, child-rearing, and long-term care, ensuring proper care for children, allowing parents to work with peace of mind, enabling young people to showcase their talents, and providing a warm support system for the elderly.
On the eve of National Day, President Lai wished for the country’s prosperity, stability, and favorable weather. He also extended blessings for New Taipei City and all cities and counties in the nation to be free from disasters throughout the year, to have celebrations during festivals, and for the people to live in peace. He noted that for people to have a good life, the government must push forward policies that benefit the nation and the people. The central government’s general budget and this year’s additional budget are especially important. He urged Legislative Yuan Speaker Han and cross-party members present to strongly support and swiftly review and approve them.
President Lai hoped that with the joint efforts and cooperation of all citizens, Taiwan’s stage will continue to expand, becoming a truly global platform. The country not only welcomes friends from all nations and entrepreneurs to Taiwan but also provides the Taiwanese people with more confidence and convenience to step into the world, moving further and more steadily.
President Lai emphasized that no matter how grand the national plans are, they must ultimately meet the simplest expectations of the people: effort yielding returns, families being able to live in peace, children having opportunities, and the elderly receiving care. This is the most important duty for him as the president, together with Premier Chuo. He emphasized the need to not only let the people of Taiwan integrate into the world but to also attract global talent to Taiwan and allow young people to see their future in their homeland.
President Lai stated, “In the past, we used to chase the world, but now the world needs Taiwan. We used to seek opportunities, but today Taiwan creates opportunities. In the future, not only should more people see Taiwan’s efforts, but these achievements should be translated into real happiness for every Taiwanese. Let us unite and work together, strive for Taiwan’s next steps, hold our heads high, believe in ourselves, believe in each other, believe in democracy, believe in Taiwan, and work together for our country.” Lastly, he wished a happy 115th birthday to the Republic of China and a wonderful evening for everyone.