Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen emphasized during her speech at the annual meeting of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) today that Taiwan will spare no effort to uphold the “democratic protection umbrella” together with democratic partners. This effort aims to prevent authoritarian expansion threats and work together to promote democracy, peace, and prosperity worldwide.
It is the first time that IPAC has held its annual meeting in Taiwan, with a total of 49 legislators and officials from 23 countries and the European Parliament in attendance, including Australian Senator Deborah O’Neill, Czech Member of Parliament Eva Decroix, and Vice Chairman of the French Senate Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee Olivier Cadic.
President Tsai Ing-wen welcomed the “justice warriors” of IPAC to Taiwan, commending their unwavering support for Taiwan since its establishment in 2020. He expressed gratitude on behalf of the Taiwanese people for standing with Taiwan in the face of threats from the Chinese Communist Party.
President Tsai highlighted the significance of IPAC’s annual meeting in Taiwan, noting the largest number of international legislators and officials in attendance, underscoring global support for Taiwan and the importance of unity among democratic partners.
IPAC recently condemned and opposed the Chinese Communist Party’s interference with its annual summit, stating that representatives have the right to visit other places freely and support their beliefs. The obstructive actions by the Chinese Communist Party have been seen as a blatant disregard of democratic rights of other countries and a denial of Taiwan’s legitimate diplomatic exchanges.
President Tsai emphasized that Taiwan, situated strategically along the first island chain, stands on the forefront of the global democratic defense line with a strong determination to protect democracy and maintain regional peace.
He pointed out China’s increasing military activities in the East and South China Seas, including joint military exercises with Russia in the South China Sea and Western Pacific. The President highlighted the recent NATO summit’s declaration identifying China as a key supporter in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Though China has never occupied Taiwan, it continues to claim Taiwan as part of its territory, frequently sending military aircraft and vessels to provoke Taiwan. The continuous intrusion of Chinese patrol ships into the waters near Kinmen was also mentioned.
President Tsai underscored China’s authoritarian expansion through various means such as military intimidation, economic coercion, cyberattacks, and spreading disinformation to disrupt regional peace and stability.
President Tsai remarked on the importance of upholding laws and avoiding distortion of history in foreign relations. He acknowledged the prominent example of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, which Taiwan will further discuss.
President Tsai expressed gratitude to international powers, including the United States and the European Parliament, for opposing China’s misinterpretation of UN Resolution 2758 and its undue connections to the “One China Principle.” He also suggested that joint efforts are needed to counter China’s authoritarian expansion threats.
IPAC officially announced Taiwan’s membership during the annual summit, with legislators Fan Yun and Chen Chao-tsai appointed as co-chairs. Members welcomed six new countries, including Colombia, Iraq, Malawi, the Solomon Islands, Gambia, and Uruguay, to the alliance.
President Tsai reiterated Taiwan’s commitment to upholding the “Four Pillars of Peace” strategy, focusing on strengthening defense capabilities, fostering economic security, standing in solidarity with democratic nations, and promoting stable cross-strait leadership.
President Tsai highlighted recent efforts such as Taiwan’s national defense exercises and emphasized Taiwan’s role in global supply chains, public health, and climate change initiatives to make significant contributions to the international community.
Lastly, President Tsai stressed the need for unity in Taiwan to achieve the vision of promoting democracy, peace, and prosperity globally, expressing appreciation for the support and cooperation from international partners for a better future.