Taiwan President Lai Says Island’s Future Must Be Decided by Its People

President William Lai of Taiwan marked the second anniversary of his term by declaring that the island’s future will be determined solely by its 23 million citizens, not by “external forces” or short‑term interests. He urged political parties to show unity in confronting “threats” and emphasized Taiwan’s readiness to defend its sovereignty.

Lai reiterated Taiwan’s willingness to dialogue with China on the basis of equality and dignity, while rejecting any “unification” attempts presented as peace initiatives. He outlined a new defence budget that will raise military spending to just over 3 % of GDP, describing the increase as a self‑defence measure meant to preserve peace in the Taiwan Strait and the Indo‑Pacific. The president also noted ongoing cooperation with like‑minded countries, referencing recent talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and former U.S. President Donald Trump about Taiwan.

The statements come amid heightened cross‑strait tension and continued U.S. support for Taiwanese arms purchases, underscoring the island’s strategic significance in regional security dynamics.