• Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te advocates for peace talks with China while strengthening defenses.
• Lai states, "peace is priceless and war has no winners," emphasizing the need for military readiness.
• China labels Lai a "separatist," rejecting his offers for dialogue.
• Military drills by China prompt Taiwanese concerns over sovereignty.
• Lai seeks equal footing in talks with China to foster dignity and cooperation.

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te emphasized the island's desire for peace and dialogue with China while reinforcing its military readiness as he marked his first year in office. Lai stated, "I, too, am committed to peace. Because peace is priceless and war has no winners," while highlighting that Taiwan must continue to strengthen its defenses to deter potential aggression from Beijing, which considers the island part of its territory. Lai's comments reflect Taiwan’s stance amid ongoing tensions with China, as the latter has labeled him a "separatist" for his independence-affirming declarations, rejecting his attempts to initiate dialogue, according to Reuters and TRT.

Lai indicated the island's defense strategy involves preparation for conflict as a means to avoid war. He stated that Taiwan would maintain a commitment to build its arms industry while also procuring foreign weapons, asserting the importance of standing "shoulder to shoulder" with international allies to enhance deterrence capabilities. This approach comes as China continues to conduct military exercises around Taiwan, heightening fears of a potential conflict, reflecting Lai's acknowledgment that "preparing for war is the best way to avoid it," according to Channel News Asia and India Times.

Despite the tensions, Lai expressed willingness to engage with China if such dialogue could occur on equal terms, insisting that Taiwan is "happy to have exchanges and cooperation with China as long as there is reciprocal dignity." The Taiwanese administration has warned of potential military drills by China, marking the anniversary of Lai's presidency and increasing concerns surrounding Beijing’s assertiveness in the region. China's Taiwan Affairs Office firmly dismissed Lai's overtures as ineffective and asserted that "Taiwan independence" is a path that is "doomed to fail," according to Channel News Asia and Channel News Asia.

Moreover, Taiwan is also navigating the challenges posed by US-China trade tensions, particularly regarding tariffs. Lai mentioned the need to diversify economic partnerships and has plans to establish a sovereign wealth fund to bolster the economy. It is crucial for Taiwan to enhance its resilience while maintaining close ties with the United States, which has historically supported Taiwan in its defense against China, according to India Times and Channel News Asia.