William Lai, Taiwan's Vice President, during a visit to the United States that China condemned, stated that if Taiwan is secure, the world will be secure, and reiterated his readiness to speak with China. Lai is the leading candidate for the presidency in Taiwan's upcoming elections in January, and he is currently in the U.S. on what is officially a transit stop on his way to Paraguay to attend the inauguration of its new president. Paraguay is one of only 13 countries that maintain official relations with Taiwan, which China claims sovereignty over.
In remarks during a luncheon in New York, Lai said, "We are indeed on the right path. We are not afraid or backing down due to increasing authoritarian threats. We must have the courage and strength to continue developing Taiwan on the path of democracy." China holds a particular disdain for Lai, who previously described himself as "a player in Taiwan's independence." However, Lai has repeatedly stated during his election campaign that he does not seek to change the status quo, emphasizing that the people of Taiwan are the only ones who can decide their future.
Lai pledged to maintain peace and the status quo. He reiterated that, based on dignity and equality, he is "fully prepared" to talk with China and seek peace and stability following the policies of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen. However, he clarified that he will protect Taiwan's sovereignty and that the people of Taiwan alone can determine their future, noting that the Republic of China, Taiwan's official name, and the People's Republic of China "are not subordinate to each other."
