Taipei: President Lai Ching-te delivered his 2026 New Year's Day address, emphasizing Taiwan's direction through four major goals: enhancing safety and resilience, advancing towards prosperity, ensuring balanced development, and fostering democratic unity.
According to Focus Taiwan, President Lai highlighted Taiwan's economic achievements, with a 15-year high growth rate projected at 7.37 percent, a record-breaking Taiwan Stock Index, and the lowest unemployment rate in 25 years. He discussed the implementation of significant infrastructure projects, such as the FORMOSAT-8 satellite launch and the nearing completion of the Tamkang Bridge.
Lai reaffirmed his commitment to national security, announcing plans to fortify Taiwan's defense with a special budget of NT$1.25 trillion and the implementation of national security strategies. He urged political unity against external threats, particularly China's military ambitions.
President Lai also emphasized economic progress, with Taiwan's banking, insurance, and securities industries experiencing substantial growth. He outlined initiatives supporting AI infrastructure, biotechnology, and small enterprises to maintain competitiveness.
In pursuit of balanced development, Lai introduced measures to support both the elderly and the youth, including Long-Term Care 3.0 and housing programs. He called for comprehensive fiscal reform to ensure fair resource distribution and promote urban-rural balance.
Addressing democratic unity, President Lai stressed the importance of constitutional adherence and cooperation between political parties. He expressed willingness to deliver a state of the nation address to promote consensus and national unity.
Concluding his address, Lai acknowledged international support for Taiwan and highlighted recent military sales from the US. He emphasized the urgency for Taiwan to advance without delay, promoting democracy, security, and prosperity as fundamental pillars for the nation's future.
