Taiwan’s Lai Calls for Peace During Hawaii Visit

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has stressed the importance of peace, stating that “war has no winners,” during his landmark stop in Hawaii as part of a weeklong tour of Pacific nations. The trip, which includes visits to the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau, has sparked significant backlash from Beijing, highlighting Taiwan’s vulnerable geopolitical situation amid rising tensions with China.

During a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, Lai paid tribute to those lost in the Japanese attack that led the U.S. into World War II. He used the occasion to emphasize Taiwan’s commitment to peace, declaring, “Peace is priceless, and war has no winners.”

Lai received a historic red-carpet welcome in Hawaii, the first time a Taiwanese president has been honored in such a manner. Later, he was applauded at a dinner attended by U.S. officials and Taiwanese expatriates. In his speech, Lai thanked the U.S. for supporting his trip, which aims to strengthen ties with Taiwan’s diplomatic allies in the Pacific.

The visit, however, has provoked strong criticism from China, which accuses Lai of pursuing separatism. Beijing has warned it will take “resolute measures” to thwart any moves toward Taiwanese independence. The Chinese government issued a statement condemning the U.S. for hosting Lai, adding that it had “lodged serious protests” and would continue to monitor the situation closely.

While the U.S. does not officially recognize Taiwan, it is the island’s most significant ally and arms supplier. Laura Rosenberger, chairperson of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), highlighted the deepening U.S.-Taiwan partnership in a video message played at the dinner, saying, “Your engagement here strengthens the rock-solid U.S.-Taiwan partnership.”

Lai’s visit to Hawaii, as part of his broader Pacific tour, aims to reinforce Taiwan’s diplomatic connections while navigating Beijing’s constant pressure. His message of peace and solidarity underscores Taiwan’s ongoing struggle for international recognition amidst mounting Chinese opposition.