Taiwan welcomes first female president

Taipei, Taiwan – Fighter jets, cultural performances and foreign diplomats were all part of the scene at the Presidential Office in Taipei last Friday, as the Republic of China (Taiwan) welcomed its first female president.

The internationally observed inauguration ceremony saw the swearing in of Taiwan’s 14th president Tsai Ing-wen and its vice-president Chen Chien-jen, who later graced the main stage to greet their audience.{{more}}

Their appearance followed a number of cultural performances that delighted the crowd at the island state’s main city of Taipei. Apart from the march of the Honour Guard of the ROC, performances included a number of presentations in dance, depicting the country’s picturesque history.

During her Inaugural address, the newly elected president invited citizens to “carry the future” of the country, reminding them that it is the collective striving of the people that makes Taiwan a great country.

“Here, I sincerely call on everyone to give this country a chance. Let us leave behind the prejudices and conflicts of the past, and together fulfill the mission that the new era has entrusted to us,” she added.

Tsai declared that her administration would demonstrate resolve in spearheading the country’s resolve “and will never back down.”

The new president said Taiwan needs a new government that readily confronts challenges and the administration will initiate actions immediately.

She added: “My self-expectation is that, within my term as president, I will tackle this country’s problems step by step, starting with the basic structure.”

Tsai described democracy as a process, further stating that in every era, politicians must recognize clearly the responsibilities they shoulder and that falling backwards is not an option for her government.

“History will remember this courageous generation. This country’s prosperity, dignity, unity, confidence and justice all bear the marks of our struggle…. It will remember that in the year 2016, we took this country in a new direction,” she said in closing.

The Vincentian delegation to the inauguration of the president is being led by Foreign Minister Sir Louis Straker and includes his wife Lady Lynda, Senator Luke Browne, Senator Deborah Charles and SEARCHLIGHT reporter Ari Shaw. (AS)