On September 4, 2024, the Secretary-General of the ruling party in Taiwan, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), Lin Yu-chang, delivered a public speech in Washington, explaining that President Lai Ching-te has continued the policy direction of former President Tsai Ing-wen by strengthening Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities and enhancing overall societal resilience to counter the threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
Lin stated that the CCP’s intentions towards Taiwan remain consistent regardless of which political party is in power on the island. He emphasized the need for cooperation among democratic nations to counter CCP’s attempts to alter the rules-based global order.
Lin’s visit to the United States coincides with the 100th day of President Lai Ching-te’s administration. He expressed his intention to engage with various American stakeholders to discuss the DPP government’s positions and actions related to policies such as increasing defense spending, enhancing self-defense capabilities, and bolstering societal resilience.
Speaking at the Global Taiwan Institute (GTI) under the theme “Deepening Taiwan’s Democracy in 2024,” Lin, a former mayor of Keelung City and Minister of the Interior, delivered his speech in English. He highlighted President Lai Ching-te’s efforts to uphold Taiwan’s security based on the foundation laid by former President Tsai Ing-wen, stressing the continuous increase in Taiwan’s determination for self-defense and national security investments.
“President Lai Ching-te emphasized in his inaugural speech that peace is the only option. We have an ideal of seeking peace, but we cannot have illusions about the CCP. The reality is that the CCP’s intention to take Taiwan has not changed regardless of which party is in power,” Lin explained.
He pointed out the various strategies employed by the CCP over the years, from military actions during the Chen Shui-bian era to economic leverage under Ma Ying-jeou’s administration, and the current use of military, cognitive warfare, misinformation, and legal tactics under President Lai Ching-te’s government to interfere and penetrate Taiwanese society.
Regarding questions from Voice of America (VOA) about possible meetings with Biden administration officials and the messages he aims to convey during his discussions with American stakeholders, Lin stated that his primary purpose is to express gratitude to overseas Taiwanese supporters of Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Mei-chin, in addition to engaging with U.S. officials and academics.
“I will visit some government officials and engage in think tank discussions. The most important thing is to ensure everyone understands the current situations Taiwan is facing and our stance and attitude towards handling internal issues, to provide a clear understanding,” Lin reiterated.
In response to CCP’s aggressive actions in Taiwan’s vicinity and the South China Sea, Lin highlighted the shared sense of threat faced by most countries due to the CCP’s behavior. Collaboration among democratic and free nations becomes increasingly critical to safeguard everyone’s security in the face of such challenges.
Following his speech, Lin addressed unanswered questions from Voice of America, emphasizing the strong communication channels between the U.S. and Taiwan at various levels, ensuring smooth exchanges and discussions on new areas of cooperation encompassing economic, technological, and other aspects.
Regarding recent reports in the Financial Times about Taiwan’s National Security Council Secretary-General, Joseph Wu, and Foreign Minister Joseph Wu holding “special channel” talks with Biden administration officials, Lin clarified that his diplomatic visit as a representative of the DPP Central Committee aims to strengthen party diplomacy. Official responses on government work or visit plans should be provided by relevant government officials.
Addressing concerns over President Lai Ching-te’s purported lack of diplomatic experience and the notion of “Lack of Lai theory” among some circles, Lin dismissed such speculations as political maneuvers occurring during elections. He emphasized that Taiwan now focuses on building trust rather than doubts, with the current relations between Taiwan and the U.S. at their peak in terms of communications and cooperation.
Lin’s itinerary during his visit to the U.S. includes stops in Washington, New York, Houston, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Besides expressing gratitude to DPP supporters among the Taiwanese diaspora in America, he aims to raise awareness about the significant policies under President Lai Ching-te’s administration.
(Translated from Voice of America)