TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Monday (March 17) emphasized Taiwan's commitment to strengthening "non-red" supply chains and digital unity with democratic partners. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Yushan Forum (玉山論壇), at the Taipei Marriott Hotel (台北萬豪酒店), he addressed the threat of authoritarian expansion.
This year's Yushan Forum, held Monday and Tuesday, focuses on "New Southbound Policy+: Taiwan, the Indo-Pacific, and a New World" (新南向+：台灣、印太與新世界). Notable speakers include former Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen and former Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša. President Lai highlighted the forum’s crucial role as a platform for the New Southbound Policy. He noted its success in connecting Taiwan with 28 countries over the past eight years.
President Lai stated the forum will translate past consensus into actionable plans for closer regional cooperation. He emphasized the government's focus on smart healthcare, smart transportation, and resilient chip supply chains, reflecting Taiwan's commitment to addressing modern challenges. Lai noted Taiwan's pivotal role in the global reorganization of democratic supply chains and economic restructuring, with the goal of becoming an "island of artificial intelligence."
Taiwan's government plans to develop an innovation-driven economic model, assisting small and medium enterprises with digital and net-zero transformations. President Lai expressed Taiwan's continued commitment to international engagement, inviting global collaboration to build a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
