At a press conference marking his two-year anniversary in office, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te responded to a question from The Wall Street Journal, stating that Taiwan is the guardian of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, while Mainland China is the real destabilizer.
A Wall Street Journal reporter asked, following the 'Xi-Trump meeting,' President Trump said during an interview on Air Force One that he would like to talk with the current leader of Taiwan. Some interpretations suggest that Trump wishes to communicate directly with Lai Ching-te. 'So, Mr. President, would you be willing to speak directly with President Trump? If so, what would you most like to say to him?'
Lai Ching-te responded by saying that communication channels between Taiwan and the United States have always been smooth, but if there is an opportunity, 'I have a responsibility to convey the feelings of Taiwanese society.'
Lai further said that he would emphasize a few points. First, peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are essential elements for world security and prosperity, and the Taiwanese government steadfastly maintains the status quo—Taiwan is the guardian of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Second, Mainland China is the real destabilizer of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The mainland continues military expansion in the East China Sea and the South China Sea, and its military exercises have even reached the Western Pacific, heightening tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. Third, Taiwan, feeling the threat is becoming increasingly severe, has increased its defense budget. 'We believe that only strength can bring peace. In other words, boosting our national defense capabilities and military procurement from the US are not only necessary for safeguarding Taiwan's security but are also essential measures to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. We hope this arms purchase can continue.'
Lai also said that no country has the right to annex Taiwan, and the Taiwanese people pursue a life of democracy and freedom—democracy and freedom should not be viewed as provocation. Therefore, he very much looks forward to Taiwan-US and Taiwan's cooperation with other democratic countries to jointly promote peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and regional peace and security.