The situation in East Asia has recently changed dramatically, including frequent regional military actions by North Korea and China that are creating tensions in other countries. China also recently—unilaterally and without negotiations—began to use the M503 and other controversial aviation routes, seriously impacting regional security and stability and air traffic safety.

President Tsai Ing-wen said at her year-end news conference Dec. 29 that the government is committed to developing the indigenous defense industry, boosting trade and the economy, maintaining regional peace and promoting steadfast diplomacy.

On the afternoon of December 29 President Tsai Ing-wen took part in the 2017 year-end press conference for the Presidential Office press corps. In her remarks, the president spoke about the government's various reform policies and achievements in addressing self-sufficiency in national defense, international economics and trade, steadfast diplomacy, and economic reform. She also pledged that the government will overcome existing challenges and achieve its set objectives.

On the morning of December 26, President Tsai Ing-wen met with a delegation led by Mr. Hirofumi Takinami, a Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) member of the Japanese Diet. She expressed hope that Japan will continue to support Taiwan and help our country work with the international community to collectively solve problems.

President Tsai Ing-wen said Dec. 26 that Taiwan and Japan should expand collaboration in a range of fields spanning culture, technology and trade.

On the afternoon of December 19, President Tsai Ing-wen met with a cross-group delegation from the European Parliament (EP). In addition to thanking the EP for supporting Taiwan, President Tsai reiterated that Taiwan will continue to proactively participate in international affairs, and enhance cooperation with the European Union (EU) and regional countries so that all parties can work together to promote peace, stability, and prosperity.

President Tsai Ing-wen said Dec. 19 that closer cooperation between Taiwan and EU companies on green technology will produce significant benefits for both sides by fostering the development of cutting-edge sustainable solutions and promoting the growth of the renewable power sector.

The Executive Yuan released Dec. 14 its third national report on the implementation of the U.N. Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), highlighting efforts by the government between 2013 and 2016 in promoting women’s rights on all fronts.

The Republic of China (Taiwan) looks forward to strengthening its cooperation with the U.S. and Japan in promoting security and economic prosperity in the Asia-Pacific, Vice President Chen Chien-jen said Dec. 13.  

President Tsai Ing-wen commemorated Human Rights Day 2017 with a special gathering on the morning of December 10 at the Taipei Guest House. In addition to thanking the people at home and abroad who supported political prisoners in Taiwan, the president expressed hope that transitional justice will become a collective social movement, helping Taiwanese face the past together and move toward a shared future.