Taiwan’s Vice President, Lai Ching-te, attended a joint ceremony in Keelung this morning, September 8th, to commemorate the handover of the CG1006 Hualien ship, the 4th 1000-ton patrol vessel, and the naming and launching of the CG1007 vessel. Lai expressed the government’s commitment to expanding and modernizing the fleet, gradually building a stronger maritime patrol force. The future plans include enhancing fleet capabilities and bolstering maritime defenses.
In her speech, Vice President Lai mentioned that this is the second time during her tenure as Vice President that she is presiding over a naming and handover ceremony for Coast Guard vessels. Previously, they welcomed the 600-ton “Yongkang” and “Changbin” ships; today, it was the grand “Hualien” ship and the vessel soon to be named. This not only showcases Taiwanese craftsmanship but also signifies the commitment to domestically built naval vessels. Lai thanked the Taiwan Shipbuilding Company for their dedication and hard work.
Having served as a legislator in Hualien for ten years, Lai expressed her emotional connection and sense of responsibility towards the “Hualien” ship. She believes that the ship will carry this spirit at sea, much like how Hualien faces the Pacific Ocean as a frontline region. The “Hualien” ship will serve as the nation’s first line of defense in safeguarding maritime borders.
Amidst the changing international landscape, Lai emphasized the importance of safeguarding peace collectively, citing conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war and Middle East tensions as reminders of the need for shared protection. She stressed that ensuring stable economic and social development in Taiwan requires strengthening security and defense measures simultaneously.
To this end, the government has vigorously pursued the “Coast Guard Vessel Forward Development Plan” in recent years, continuously expanding and modernizing the fleet. Lai highlighted the progressive reinforcement of a stronger, more modern, and resilient maritime patrol force with each new vessel joining the ranks.
Lai acknowledged the vital role of family support in the endeavors of Coast Guard personnel, as the understanding and backing of loved ones allow them to dedicate themselves fully to protecting the nation and its people on the frontline. She expressed her deepest respect and gratitude to all the families of Coast Guard personnel, recognizing their silent yet critical contribution to national security.
Looking ahead, the Vice President reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing the next phase of Coast Guard shipbuilding plans to elevate fleet capabilities and enhance Taiwan’s maritime defenses. She emphasized that national security is not solely the responsibility of a single vessel but a collective defense erected by courageous and dedicated individuals.
In conclusion, Lai extended her gratitude to all who support domestically built naval vessels, particularly thanking the Legislative Yuan for their budgetary assistance and encouragement. She urged the Ocean Affairs Council and Taiwan Shipbuilding Company to continue their efforts, ensuring the timely, quality completion of subsequent projects within budget constraints to fortify Taiwan’s maritime defenses. The commitment to safeguarding should not just be rhetoric but manifested through tangible actions.
Lai likened the “Hualien” ship facing the sea and braving the waves to symbolize the courage and resilience essential in navigating challenges, asserting that only through such resolve can Taiwan stand firm and proud on the global stage.
Subsequently, Vice President Lai led the naming ceremony for the “Penghu” ship (CG1007) and witnessed the vessel’s launch by the breaking of a bottle, followed by the turnover ceremony of the “Hualien” ship. She then boarded the “Hualien” ship for a visit.