TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) honored 22 members of the national security team with medals on Wednesday (May 15), recognizing their contributions to Taiwan's self-reliance in ship and aircraft manufacturing. The ceremony highlighted the government's commitment to national defense and regional stability.
In her speech, Tsai expressed gratitude towards the national security and ruling teams for their efforts in safeguarding national security and maintaining peace and stability in the region.
She highlighted the government's defense reforms, including the reinstatement of a one-year mandatory military service and the enhancement of training quality and capacity during service. Tsai also thanked National Security Council Secretary-General Wellington Koo (顧立雄) for his active participation in security dialogues and cooperation mechanisms and acknowledged the efforts of former Secretary-General and current Advisory Committee Member Yen Teh-fa (嚴德發) and Chairman of CSBC Corporation, Taiwan, Cheng Wen-lon (鄭文隆) in submarine manufacturing.
Koo, speaking on behalf of the honorees, expressed honor in receiving the medals and thanked President Tsai for her trust and support. Tsai emphasized that while the path to defense reform is challenging, the perseverance and hard work of everyone involved have ensured national security and demonstrated Taiwan's commitment to protecting democracy and freedom.
Koo and Yen received the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon.
Chief of the General Staff of the Ministry of National Defense Mei Chia-shu (梅家樹) and President of National Defense University Liu Chih-pin (劉志斌) were awarded the Order of Resplendent Banner with Grand Cordon. Commander of the Navy Command Tang Hua (唐華) received the Order of Precious Tripod with Special Cravat, while Cheng was honored with the Order of Propitious Clouds with Green Grand Cordon.