Tien, Chung-kwang
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs
Republic of China (Taiwan)
August 8, 2023
(As Prepared for Delivery)
Ladies and gentlemen:
It is an honor to speak at today’s closing ceremony. On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the speakers, panelists, and participants for their invaluable contributions. The expertise and dedication you brought to the crucial issues addressed in the discussions have made this event a resounding success.
In particular, I extend special gratitude to our keynote speakers—namely, the Honorable Taro Aso, former Prime Minister of Japan; and the Honorable Andrus Ansip, former Prime Minister of Estonia. Your presence and your perceptive speeches have conveyed staunch support for Taiwan and underlined that Taiwan is an indispensable democratic partner. And you have reminded us that we are not alone in pursuing such shared values as freedom, democracy, and human rights.
Throughout this forum, we have delved into three critical topics that hold significant implications for global security, democracy, and economic stability.
Firstly, discussions on the situation across the Taiwan Strait and its impact on global security have shed light on this region’s complexities and flashpoints. We have explored evolving dynamics, the importance of maintaining peace and stability, and the need for dialogue and constructive engagement to resolve differences. This has reinforced the understanding that a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region is vital for our common well-being and security.
Secondly, we have examined the challenges that information warfare, cognitive warfare, and gray-zone tactics pose to democracy. This has underscored the critical importance of defending democratic values, safeguarding free and independent media, and promoting digital literacy. Our discussions have also highlighted the need for robust cybersecurity measures, effective legislation, and international cooperation to combat the disinformation and cyberattacks that undermine democratic processes.
Thirdly, our examination of international supply chain restructuring and Taiwan’s role in ensuring economic security has highlighted the interdependencies and vulnerabilities within the global system. We have heard about Taiwan’s significant contribution to high-tech industries and its potential to play a crucial role in diversifying and securing supply chains. Discussion has emphasized the importance of resilience, collaboration, and innovation to address economic challenges and promote sustainable growth.
Taiwan plays a pivotal role in the fight against China’s authoritarianism, standing resolute on the front line of defense of democracy. China’s malicious actions—specifically, those directed at Taiwan—not only disrupt stability across the Taiwan Strait but also pose a grave threat to peace in the Indo-Pacific and global security and prosperity. Taiwan’s distinctive attributes—including its democracy, strategic location, and robust technological and economic foundations—highlight its unparalleled strategic significance. Recent international events have emphasized the increasing significance of maintaining peace and security across the Taiwan Strait and underscored the fact that regional security is a matter of profound global concern.
As a responsible partner in the Indo-Pacific region, Taiwan is committed to fostering multilateral dialogue to pursue peaceful resolutions to contemporary security challenges. The Ketagalan Forum is a prominent example of this engagement.
I am convinced that during this forum, you have witnessed the profound impact that dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration have our comprehension of these complex matters. The invaluable insights of the panelists and the active involvement of all participants have truly enriched our perspectives.
As this forum draws to a close, let us carry forward the valuable lessons learned and the ideas generated here today. Let us remain vigilant in safeguarding global security, defending democratic values, and fostering economic resilience. It is through collective efforts, both at national and international levels, that we can address the challenges we face and build a more secure, prosperous, and inclusive future for all.
I thank you all once again for your presence today. We look forward to seeing you again next year. Thank you!