Dharamshala — His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet wrote to the new President of Taiwan, Lai Ching-te, congratulating him on his inauguration as Taiwan's 8th President and lauded the development of true democracy and freedom in Taiwan. His Holiness wishes him every success in meeting the challenges that lie ahead to fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the Taiwanese people.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama wrote to His Excellency Lai Ching-te on May 21, 2024 to warmly congratulate him on his accession to the presidency of Taiwan, Republic of China, on May 20, 2024.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama wrote, "It is wonderful to see how firmly rooted democracy has become in Taiwan. The Taiwanese people have not only developed a flourishing, robust democracy, but have also achieved great prosperity, while at the same time preserving their rich cultural traditions."
"May I wish you every success in meeting the challenges that lie ahead in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people of Taiwan," the Tibetan spiritual leader concluded his congratulatory letter.
While giving inaugural address of Republic of China, President Lai Ching-te said, "We thank nations around the world for their consideration and support for Taiwan. We would also like to declare to all that democracy and freedom are Taiwan’s unwavering commitments. Peace is the only option. And prosperity, gained through lasting peace and stability, is our objective.
"The future of cross-strait relations will have a decisive impact on the world. This means that we, who have inherited a democratic Taiwan, are pilots for peace. Our government will uphold the Four Commitments, neither yield nor provoke, and maintain the status quo.
"I also want to call on China to cease their political and military intimidation against Taiwan, share with Taiwan the global responsibility of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait as well as the greater region, and ensure the world is free from the fear of war.
"Taiwanese are a peace-loving people who treat others with kindness. I have always believed that if the leader of a country puts the people’s welfare above all, then peace in the Taiwan Strait, mutual benefits, and prosperous coexistence would be common goals.
"Therefore, I hope that China will face the reality of the Republic of China’s existence, respect the choices of the people of Taiwan, and in good faith, choose dialogue over confrontation, exchange over containment, and under the principles of parity and dignity, engage in cooperation with the legal government chosen by Taiwan’s people. This can start from the resumption of tourism on a reciprocal basis, and enrollment of degree students in Taiwanese institutions. Let us together pursue peace and mutual prosperity."
