President Lai: Continue to Strengthen National Defense Autonomy, Promote AI New Ten Major Infrastructure Projects

(Central News Agency reporter Huang Xusheng, New Taipei City, 6th) President Lai Ching-te said today that the government will continue to strengthen national defense capabilities, implement national defense autonomy, stand together with democratic partners, promote the "AI New Ten Major Infrastructure Projects," assist small and micro enterprises in transformation to develop the economy, make the country safer, and provide better care for the people.

The 12th 2nd Member Representative Conference of the New Taipei City Chiayi Association was held today in Xinzhuang District, New Taipei City. President Lai Ching-te attended upon invitation. Chiayi County Magistrate Weng Chang-liang, Democratic Progressive Party legislators Tsai Yi-yu, Wang Mei-hui, Su Chiao-hui, and several other legislators, along with councilors from various counties and cities, participated and took commemorative photos with the乡亲 (fellow townspeople).

In his speech, the President said that after being elected with the support of his fellow townspeople, he has fought alongside Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, worked closely with Premier Cho Jung-tai's team, and continued to build on the administrative achievements of former President Tsai Ing-wen, promoting national defense autonomy to make the country safer. In particular, he will continue to promote the defense industry and the drone industry that Chiayi values.

President Lai said that Taiwan is also working with countries in the democratic camp to strive for peace in the Taiwan Strait and to allow the economy to continue to develop and grow. Taiwan's economic performance has been outstanding in recent years. The economic growth rate for the first quarter of this year was 14.55%, the annual economic growth rate is estimated at 9.64%, per capita GDP (Gross Domestic Product) has surpassed Japan and South Korea, and the stock market's market capitalization is the 5th largest in the world.

The President said that the government has proposed the "AI (Artificial Intelligence) New Ten Major Infrastructure Projects" to focus on the technology industry and lead small and micro enterprises in development, also allowing traditional industries and small companies to make money. Taiwan's economy will get better and better, and society will become more harmonious.

The President also mentioned the government's 18 strategies to address the challenges of low birth rates and population structure, planning growth allowances for ages 0 to 18, so that children will have funds to continue their education or start a business when they become adults.

The President emphasized that everyone should have confidence in Taiwan. In addition to the central government's efforts and correct direction, local governments are also very important. As a native of New Taipei City, he recommended Su Chiao-hui as an outstanding candidate. Not only is she a Master of Laws, but she has also performed excellently in the Legislative Yuan and has deep roots at the grassroots level. He hopes she will win the New Taipei City mayoral election at the end of the year and lead New Taipei City, Taiwan's most populous city, to greater progress. "The best candidate is Su Chiao-hui."

The President stated that former Premier Su Tseng-chang invested many construction projects in Chiayi County and City during his tenure and promoted the drone industry. He will continue to build and work hard for Chiayi. Having served as the Mayor of Tainan himself, he understands that as a public servant, one must go deep into the grassroots and take care of the people. Electing Su Chiao-hui will allow New Taipei City to be reborn and make great progress.

The President also recommended DPP candidates for Chiayi County Magistrate, Tsai Yi-yu, and Chiayi City Mayor, Wang Mei-hui, praising their approachability and deep roots in the community. He hopes the乡亲 will support good talent, allowing the central government and counties/cities to work together. (Editor: Lin Shuhui) 1150606