Facing both external and internal challenges over the past year, Lai has had to navigate tensions with Washington – despite what he described as the “best-ever” US-Taiwan relations – alongside near-daily military threats from Beijing and sharp political divisions at home.
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Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang unveils plan to build ‘AI supercomputer’ in Taiwan
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang unveils plan to build ‘AI supercomputer’ in Taiwan
“Friction between friends is inevitable, but it can be worked through,” Lai said. “Taiwan has long engaged and cooperated with the United States and other democratic partners, growing together through mutual encouragement.”
Responding to mounting concern over the tariff talks, Lai said discussions were “ongoing and proceeding smoothly” after a previous round of in-person negotiations.
“The government will uphold three core principles: protecting national interests, supporting industrial development, and never sacrificing any single sector,” he said. “We will deepen Taiwan-US economic ties in a deliberate, balanced and strategic manner to secure the best possible outcome.”
