TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Vice President-elect Hsiao Bi-khim attended the second international forum of the Center for Asia-Pacific Resilience and Innovation (CAPRI) on Monday (May 6), asserting in her closing remarks that Taiwan can not only assist but also lead.
Hsiao pointed out that Taiwan has weathered landslides, typhoons, droughts, earthquakes, the world's longest martial law, misinformation, cyberattacks, and military harassment. These challenges, she said, have become the foundation of Taiwan's success, demonstrating its economic, social, and defense resilience.
Hsiao believes Taiwan's leadership is crucial to the world because it is an island of resilience. Overcoming difficulties and challenges has given Taiwan unique characteristics and advantages, making it a beacon of global progress.
Hsiao noted that President Tsai Ing-wen pledged in her 2022 National Day speech to build Taiwan into an island of resilience. In the past two years, with the joint efforts of various government departments and society, Taiwan's democratic, economic, and defense resilience have achieved results.
Hsiao believes Taiwan's leadership in the Asia-Pacific region can be highlighted in many areas. Its democratic transition has been recognized, and it ranks among the top in the region in terms of fundamental human rights, freedom of speech, and media freedom.
Hsiao pointed out that Taiwan has transformed from a synonym for low-cost and mass production to a hotspot for high-tech innovation and research and development, with its strength in flexible and innovative small and medium-sized enterprises.
Hsiao believes the stories of Taiwan's resilience and adaptability provide inspiration for the nation. The core of the Taiwan model comes from resilience in adversity, highlighting the importance of human capital, investment in education, and promoting social integration, making Taiwan a fair and inclusive society.
Hsiao said that she and President-elect Lai Ching-te would embody these values, continue to cooperate with like-minded countries and establish stronger partnerships.