On the morning of January 21, 2025, President Lai Ching-te visited military units in Taitung, including the Army Taitung Regional Command, Navy Fugang Radar Station, and the Air Force 7th Tactical Fighter Wing. The President expressed his deep appreciation for the steadfast dedication of the military in safeguarding national security, allowing citizens to enjoy a peaceful and secure Lunar New Year. He emphasized that the government will continue to provide substantial resources to support the armed forces, pledging to be their most reliable and steadfast ally. Additionally, President Lai urged both the ruling and opposition parties to unite in their support for national defense, particularly in strengthening the defense budget and ensuring the welfare of all military personnel.
During his visit, President Lai began by inspecting the Army Taitung Regional Command, where he observed combat readiness exercises conducted by the forces stationed there. He then proceeded to the Navy Fugang Radar Station to review maritime operations. Using the rapid communication system, President Lai engaged in a conversation with officers aboard the Frigate ROCS Si Ning (PFG-1203), thanking them for their continued efforts in patrolling Taiwan’s territorial waters and defending its maritime borders, ensuring the safety and security of the country.
In his remarks, President Lai acknowledged the harsh winter maritime conditions in Taiwan, urging all military personnel to exercise cautiously and prioritize their safety while carrying out their duties. He also extended his heartfelt wishes for a prosperous and joyful Lunar New Year to all personnel, expressing hopes for good fortune and smooth progress in the Year of the Snake.
Following his visits to the Army and Navy, President Lai traveled to the Air Force 7th Tactical Fighter Wing, where he received a briefing on the T-BE5A Brave Eagle and General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon, along with the wing’s current missions and operational capabilities. During his time with the personnel, the President expressed his gratitude and presented bonuses, spring couplets, red envelopes, and lucky bags as tokens of appreciation for their dedication and hard work.
In his address, President Lai emphasized that his visit was not only to observe the military’s routine training but to personally represent the gratitude of all Taiwanese citizens for the military’s unwavering commitment to defending the nation’s security. He commended the military for their diligence and responsibility, noting that the nation’s defense is in capable hands, with dedicated personnel from all branches of the armed forces, both at home and abroad.
President Lai further noted the recent transition of the 7th Squadron into a tactical fighter wing, which included the acquisition of the latest F-16V fighter jets as part of ongoing military modernization efforts. He praised both the pilots and ground crew for their collaboration during the transition period, ensuring that Taiwan’s eastern airspace remains secure. President Lai also assured the public that the military will continue to play a critical role in protecting Taiwan’s sovereignty and maintaining regional peace and stability.
The President took the opportunity to address the growing regional challenges posed by the increased ambitions of authoritarian regimes, particularly China, which has escalated its aggressive and destabilizing actions in recent years. He reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to defending democracy, peace, and prosperity, underlining that Taiwan cannot place its trust in the goodwill of others alone but must rely on its strength to secure lasting peace.
In conclusion, President Lai reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to supporting the military through continued investment in defense resources, research, and development. He called for bipartisanship in supporting national defense and emphasized that, as international conditions continue to evolve, Taiwan must stand united in its defense of peace and democracy. The President also took a moment to thank all military personnel for their tireless efforts during the holiday season, ensuring that citizens could celebrate the Lunar New Year in peace.
As the Lunar New Year approaches, President Lai extends his warmest wishes for health, happiness, and success in the coming year. He urged all military personnel on duty, particularly those from Taitung, to take time to connect with their families, offering his thanks for their sacrifices.
The President was accompanied by the Secretary of National Security Council-General Wu Chao-hsieh, Deputy Secretary-General Liu Te-jin, Minister of National Defense Gu Li-xiong, Chief of Army General Lu, Chief of Air Force General Zheng, Deputy Chief of Navy General Ma, and other senior officials during the visit.