Over the past few years, Taiwan and Japan have addressed the challenges of the pandemic together, while the expansion of authoritarianism has also made us realize the importance of unity among democracies. I also want to take this opportunity to once again thank the government of Japan for emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait at numerous important events over the past few years.
Everyone has seen that China's recent military exercises around Taiwan are a serious threat to regional security. I want to emphasize once again that Taiwan's determination to defend our sovereignty and uphold democracy and freedom will not change due to pressure and intimidation.
At the same time, as a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan will not act to provoke or escalate tensions. I hope that democratic countries will work together and jointly safeguard regional security. I also hope that Taiwan and Japan will continue to deepen exchanges and cooperation in all areas, and work together to promote a free and open, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.