As the Chinese Lunar New Year approaches, President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Lai Ching-te recently visited the Eastern region of Taiwan to encourage the armed forces there. He specially recorded a video message for the Lunar New Year called “Juguang Garden” to uplift the spirits, urging the military brothers and sisters to stand firm and ensure the people can celebrate the New Year in peace. President Lai expressed his gratitude for the contributions and sacrifices made by the armed forces.
The Presidential Office of the Republic of China announced today that President Lai, upon arriving at the Eastern region in Taitung to meet with the troops, first enjoyed coffee and snacks with representatives of the soldiers, engaging in casual conversations. Lai Ching-te inquired about everyone’s family situations, daily leisure activities, duties during the New Year, and responded to questions from the troops.
During the gathering, President Lai shared about the “2.0 National Childcare Together Program” with soldiers who are raising newborns, hoping that subsidies can alleviate the burden on young couples. He also shared his experience serving in the military in Kinmen, mentioning his visit last year to Haiyin Temple during the 66th anniversary of the “823 Battle,” emphasizing the unwavering commitment to safeguarding Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu, and defending the Republic of China.
While interacting with the soldiers, some asked if the President will take a break for the Lunar New Year. President Lai responded by saying that as the President, he is essentially on call 24 hours a day. During the New Year period, he plans to visit temples across the country to greet the people, as well as visit military units to offer support and appreciation to partners working diligently on duty. Additionally, some soldiers mentioned that President Lai is the first president to cheer up the troops with the “Special Project for Spiritual Warfare Training” before the Han Kuang exercises.
President Lai expressed his gratitude to all the military brothers and sisters for their hard work. He outlined his three missions as President: to safeguard the country’s survival and development, uphold national sovereignty, protect the lives and properties of all citizens, ensure peace through strength, and promote economic development for the well-being of the 23 million people in Taiwan, sharing the success with all. He emphasized that democracy is Taiwan’s only and most important path, urging everyone to move forward without turning back. In the face of potential challenges in the new year due to changing international situations, he stressed the importance of peace in the Taiwan Strait for global security and prosperity, calling for vigilance to protect Taiwan’s democracy and security.
Subsequently, President Lai presented gift bags to representatives of the soldiers, thanking them for their dedication in safeguarding the nation’s security during the New Year. He appreciated everyone’s contributions and sacrifices, ensuring the people can celebrate the New Year in peace, safeguarding the beloved democratic and free life we cherish.
To conclude the visit, President Lai and representatives from the Air Force’s 7th Squadron wished all the military brothers and sisters a harmonious and prosperous New Year, extending their heartfelt greetings of “May you have a smooth and joyful Spring Festival.”