President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Lai Ching-te presided over the promotion ceremony for newly appointed military officials today (30th). He expressed the hope that the newly promoted officials will strengthen defense and security work, jointly building a solid line of defense for national security. He also hoped that with a more flexible, innovative, and practical approach, the modernization and efficiency of the military will be enhanced to strengthen overall defense capabilities.
President Lai Ching-te hosted the “Promotion Ceremony for May 114th (2025) Republic of China Military Officials,” attended by key figures such as Presidential Office Secretary-General Pan Meng-an, National Security Council Secretary-General Wu Zhao-xie, Minister of National Defense Koo Li-hsiung, Chief of the General Staff Mei Chia-shu, Deputy Chairman of the Ocean Affairs Council Chang Chung-lung, Army Commander Lu Kun-hsiu, Navy Commander Tang Hwa, and Air Force Commander Cheng Jung-feng.
In his address, President Lai congratulated the newly promoted officials for their dedication and perseverance in achieving each promotion, emphasizing the increased responsibility that comes with their new ranks. He conveyed sincere congratulations to them and their families while expecting them to contribute to the military and the nation with higher standards.
President Lai stated, “First of all, I want to congratulate Major Generals Chen Chun-yuan and Sun Li-fang. Major General Chen Chun-yuan, from the artillery, during his tenure as commander of the 43rd Artillery Command and Artillery Training Center, supervised various teaching and combat readiness works, not only enhancing the use of artillery firepower but also laying a solid foundation for our national defense capabilities.”
“Major General Sun Li-fang underwent public affairs military officer training at the United States Defense Information School and was elected to the school’s Hall of Fame in 2024, being the only Taiwan military officer to receive this honor. During his tenure as spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, he provided precise analysis and communication of defense policies, demonstrating high professionalism and composure, thus elevating the overall image of the military,” President Lai added.
President Lai extended his congratulations to eleven newly promoted Brigadier Generals, including Huang Ying-fu, Chen Yi-hung, Lei Yong-qi, Yang Yung-pao, Chiang Kuo-hsien, Wu Chien-kuan, Tan Jen-yung, Lin Sheng-hsin, Wang Shi-peng, Lee Chang-fu, and Leung Yuen-sheng.
He expressed gratitude to all the generals present for their dedication and efforts in their respective positions, whether in combat training, medical services, defense affairs, general staff management, long-range patrols, and other fields, contributing to the strengthening of Taiwan’s defense forces. President Lai emphasized the crucial role of awareness and readiness in the face of rapidly changing international geopolitical circumstances and threats from authoritarian expansion and infiltration.
“In March of this year, I proposed 17 strategies to address Taiwan’s national security and united front threats. Additionally, the enhancement of soldier awareness is essential. I hope that all generals can uphold the core value of ‘defending national security,’ strengthen defense and security work, and jointly establish a solid line of defense for national security,” President Lai stated.
President Lai highlighted the importance of continuously improving self-defense capabilities through defense reforms, procurement of modern weaponry and equipment, and urged generals to adopt a more flexible, innovative, and practical mindset to enhance the efficiency and overall defense capabilities of the military.
Finally, President Lai expressed gratitude to the families present, acknowledging their support and understanding as essential for the newly promoted officials to wholeheartedly engage in defense affairs. He sincerely thanked them on behalf of the nation and once again congratulated all officials, urging them to unite in safeguarding national security, upholding democracy, peace, and prosperity.