YOU Si-kun：Appreciating overseas Taiwanese’s supports and pleading their continuous efforts to level up democratic Taiwan onto the international stage
In his address, President YOU
expressed his joy at being invited to the "2024 Overseas Taiwanese Reunion
Dinner". Seeing so many compatriots who have strived overseas and
supported democracy of Taiwan all come back to Taiwan, gathering in one place
at this critical moment, he felt a deep sense of warmth and affability.
President YOU continued by
stating that Taiwan's democracy, freedom, sovereignty, and security have always
been of great concern. Thanks to everyone's endeavor, the right person had won
Taiwan's presidential election, paving Taiwan’s way forward on the right path. He
would like to express gratitude on behalf of the Legislative Yuan to everyone
for their efforts.
President YOU went on to say
that this was a heartwarming occasion. He believed that everyone had already
learned a lot of information and comments about the election results through
the media; therefore, he chose not to further elaborate on it. Yet, he would
like to express his special thanks to the residents of Yilan County for their
support of Democratic Progressive Party candidats, and express gratitude to
everybody once again for the victory of the incumbent Vice President Lai
Ching-te. Despite the fact that the DPP did not secure a majority in the
legislative seats, he acknowledged that his efforts were insufficient and
recognized the need for personal reflection and improvement. President YOU
emphasized that Taiwan is our own country, and there is still a long road
ahead, especially for Taiwan to gain international recognition as a
"normalized state". He encouraged everyone not to give up easily. He
has faith that Taiwan will become a much more mature democracy after the
elections. He further explained that during Taiwan’s first alternation of
political party in power in 2000, the administration had already experienced a
“divided government” situation for 8 years. The ruling party at that time faced
numerous challenges while he served as the Premier from 2002 to 2005. He
therefore encouraged all to face the upcoming similar situation. The upcoming
new administration may encounter additional challenges, but regardless of the
obstacles that emerge, let everyone be their strongest backup.
In closing, President YOU
extended his blessings for good health and success to all attendees and wished
the event a big success. Then, other distinguished guests took turns delivering
speeches. President YOU, alongside incumbent Vice President Lai and other
honored guests, raised a toast and took photos together. The event concluded in
a warm and friendly vibe.
