President Lai Urges Unity in Protecting Taiwan from CCP Threat

In a significant speech at the Hakka Youth Association in Taoyuan, President William Lai called for solidarity among Taiwan's political factions to shield the nation from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). This address, as reported by Taipei Times, was part of a series of ten speeches aimed at rallying support for Taiwan's security.

Highlighting Taiwanese democracy pioneer Chiang Wei-shui's slogan on the power of unity, Lai urged political parties to find common ground for the country's welfare. He emphasized that all parties are obliged to defend democracy, maintain Taiwan's sovereignty, and oppose the CCP, transcending the differences in national identity framing.

Lai recalled critical historical battles like the 1949 Battle of Guningtou, emphasizing that unity is crucial in confronting national threats, irrespective of ethnic or national origins. He argued that China's stance toward Taiwan is driven by expansionism, independent of individual or party beliefs, and referenced key Democratic Progressive Party resolutions to support mutual recognition of Taiwan and ROC identities.

The president reiterated that Taiwanese identity is a personal choice and underscored the nation's collective support for democratic principles over authoritarian communism. He referenced former president Tsai Ing-wen's 'four commitments', reinforcing Taiwan's commitment to democracy and sovereignty, and stressing that only Taiwanese people can determine their future.

Lai's remarks also reiterated political accountability to citizens and the necessity for parties to unite in defending Taiwan, echoing sentiments reported by Taipei Times. His address built on prior appeals for bipartisan cooperation in national security and urged opposition leaders to collaborate against Chinese threats.

(With inputs from agencies.)