TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) announced on Wednesday (Aug. 21) that Taiwan has significantly reduced its economic dependence on China while attending the Ketagalan Forum: 2024 Indo-Pacific Security Dialogue (凱達格蘭論壇-2024印太安全對話) forum.
Lai noted that Taiwan's investment in China dropped from 83.8% in 2010 to a historic low of 11.4% last year. Additionally, Taiwan's exports to China fell from 43.1% in the first half of 2010 to 31.2% this year, marking the lowest level in 22 years. These changes underscore Taiwan's efforts to diversify its economic partnerships.
The president emphasized Taiwan's strategic position in the first island chain, facing direct threats from China. He accused China of suppressing Taiwan's international space, obstructing trade agreements, and blocking regional economic participation. Despite these challenges, Lai remarked that Taiwan remains committed to engaging with the global community.
Reaffirming Taiwan's role as a responsible member of the international community, Lai stressed that Taiwan would maintain the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. He is willing to engage and cooperate with China under conditions of mutual respect and dignity to ensure peace and stability in the region.
Lai also addressed China's military activities in the East China Sea and South China Seas and joint exercises with Russia in the South China Sea, Western Pacific, and the Sea of Japan. He condemned these actions as military intimidation that undermines regional peace and stability and threatens neighboring countries.
Lai argued that China's attempts to alter the international order necessitate greater unity among regional and global democracies. He stressed the importance of solidarity in countering authoritarian expansion and protecting democratic values.