Taiwanese President William Lai emphasized that Taiwan’s independence signifies its separation from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and clarified that the Republic of China (RoC) and the PRC are not subordinate to each other. Speaking at a youth forum for the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) 40th anniversary, Lai highlighted sovereignty as the foundation of statehood, noting the inseparable connection between Taiwan and the RoC.
He underscored the significance of the Resolution on Taiwan’s Future, adopted by the DPP National Congress in 1999, which asserts Taiwan as an independent sovereign state under the RoC name. Lai reiterated that any alteration in the “status quo” should be determined by the Taiwanese people, emphasizing the principles outlined by former President Tsai Ing-wen during her 2021 Double Ten National Day speech.
Lai further elaborated on the commitments made by Tsai, emphasizing the government’s dedication to upholding a free and democratic constitutional system, resisting encroachment on Taiwan’s sovereignty, and ensuring that the future of the RoC is determined by the will of the Taiwanese people. He also expressed gratitude for the United States’ support and commitment to peace and stability in the region, particularly in the Taiwan Strait.
