It is especially fitting for us to meet here, to pay tribute to a distinguished American president and world leader. A man who also played a crucial role, in partnership with the US Congress, in protecting and fortifying US-Taiwan relations at a time of changing diplomatic realities. President Reagan's Six Assurances of 1982, on top of the landmark Taiwan Relations Act passed by Congress, laid the foundation for a strong and unique partnership of over four decades, during which we have maintained peace, promoted prosperity, and welcomed the advent of Taiwan's democracy.
However, it is no secret that today, the peace that we have maintained, and the democracy which we have worked hard to build, are facing unprecedented challenges. We once again find ourselves in a world where democracy is under threat, and the urgency of keeping the beacon of freedom shining cannot be understated. President Reagan said it best: "Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. It must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation."
In the discussion with congressional leaders this morning, I reiterated Taiwan's commitment to defending the peaceful status quo, where the people of Taiwan may continue to thrive in a free and open society. I also highlighted a belief which President Reagan championed, that to preserve peace, we must be strong. I would like to add that we are stronger when we are together.
For this, I also expressed our deepest gratitude on behalf of the Taiwanese people to members of Congress on both sides of the aisle, on a number of initiatives that have helped to make Taiwan and our partnership stronger. Specifically, initiatives in the realm of enhancing Taiwan's self-defense capabilities, fostering robust trade and economic ties between us, and supporting Taiwan's meaningful participation in the international community, have all served to safeguard our shared interests in peace and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific.
Taiwan strives to be a reliable partner to the world, a cornerstone for stability in the region, and a force for good. There is a saying in the Confucian Analects, "one who is virtuous will not stand alone." In our efforts to protect our way of life, Taiwan is grateful to have the United States of America by our side. As we confront the unique challenges of our time, let us be mindful of the principles that have forged our great partnership and bear in mind the lessons of President Reagan's enduring legacy.