Distinguished guests, ladies, and gentlemen, welcome to the 113th National Day reception of the Republic of China (Taiwan), hosted by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Melbourne. Thank you to all of our valued friends for coming tonight. Good friends are very much like Tim Tams - you simply cannot have too many! Your presence here highlights the lasting, supportive relationships Taiwan has built with cherished international partners like Australia, united by a rich body of shared values.
Earlier this year, our newly elected President Lai Ching-te emphasised the importance of values-based diplomacy in deepening Taiwan’s connections with other nations. His vision of like-minded countries working together to safeguard regional peace, and security confirms our consistent approach. Taiwan is a proud member of the community of free nations, always seeking opportunities to deepen ties and work together to create a better, safer, and more prosperous world.
For decades, Taiwan has navigated an increasingly complex international landscape. In the face of political threats and economic pressure from an unfriendly neighbour, Taiwan has chosen the path of resilience and deepening our engagement with like-minded countries.
During his inauguration, President Lai outlined our “Four-Pillar Plan for Peace,” which includes strengthening national defence capabilities, building economic security, deepening partnerships with democratic nations, and ensuring the security and stability of the Taiwan Strait through peaceful dialogue.
Through our unwavering commitment to collaboration and mutual respect, the international community increasingly acknowledges Taiwan’s steadfast dedication to our national identity and democratic principles. The discourse on Taiwan’s international status continues to grow, and we deeply appreciate the rising condemnation of China’s distortion of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, which solely addresses China’s representation in the UN without resolving Taiwan’s status or impeding our participation in the international organisations, such as UNFCCC, WHO, ICAO and INTERPOL. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the nations affirming Taiwan’s crucial role in fostering global peace and stability.
On the international stage, Taiwan has consistently demonstrated resilience in overcoming challenges. For us Taiwanese, the commitment to upholding democracy, freedom, and human rights is inviolable and non-negotiable.
In this context, I would like to once again emphasize that Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign nation, and its future must be decided by the 23.5 million Taiwanese people. Despite the PRC’s claims, democratic Taiwan is not, and has never been, part of authoritarian China. We remain committed to peace, dialogue, and cooperation, striving for regional stability and shared prosperity.
As we move forward, Taiwan is committed to strengthening international partnerships and advocating for our rightful place in the global community. We urge our international friends to support Taiwan and deepen their understanding of our dedication to democracy and justice. Together, we will confront injustice and safeguard our shared values of peace, democracy, and freedom. When it comes to standing up for what is right, we embody the spirit of the boxing kangaroo – a formidable opponent known throughout the world.
Taiwan is actively expanding its economic ties across the Indo-Pacific region through our New Southbound Policy. In the first half of 2024, exports to 18 regional countries reached a record $16.3 billion USD. Australia has been one of our key partners, with bilateral trade amounting to $23.4 billion USD in 2023.
Australia ranks as Taiwan’s eighth-largest trading partner, while Taiwan is Australia’s seventh-largest. We look forward to Australia’s continued support of our efforts to join the CPTPP, fostering mutual prosperity and closer economic collaboration.
For many years, Australia has been our most important energy partner, supplying nearly 85% of Taiwan’s energy imports in 2023. As Taiwan’s largest provider of liquefied natural gas and coal, Australia plays a critical role in our energy security. Moreover, Australia’s contributions to Taiwan’s renewable energy sector, particularly in offshore wind power development, further underscore our collaborative efforts to address the threat of climate change.
As we continue to strengthen our ties, let’s ensure our partnership is like a good Aussie barbecue—where everyone is welcome and there is always plenty to share!
With this spirit in mind, as we gather to celebrate Taiwan’s National Day, we look ahead with confidence to a future where Taiwan continues to play a meaningful role on the global stage. Together with our international partners, we will strive for a world that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous.
Ladies and gentlemen, as we reflect on tonight’s celebration, let’s remember that our friendship is not just about politics or trade; it is about people working together to build a future that is peaceful and prosperous for all.
So please join Sandy and me in a toast: To the enduring friendship between Australia and Taiwan! To our continued prosperity! And to the health, happiness, and success of everyone here tonight.
Happy birthday, Taiwan! Cheers!
