Despite strengthening the island's defenses, Taiwan's president says we seek peace and dialogue with China.

Lai, who has completed a year in office, rejects China's claims to sovereignty over Taiwan, a separate democracy, and maintains that only the people of Taiwan can decide their future. The government has warned that Beijing may mark Lai's first anniversary with military exercises, but the president, speaking to reporters at the presidential office in central Taipei, delivered a message of peace.

"I am also committed to peace, because peace is priceless, and there is no winner in war. But when it comes to pursuing peace, we cannot be guided by dreams or illusions," Lai said. He emphasized that Taiwan will continue to strengthen its defenses, because preparing for war is the best way to avoid it.

He added, "I also emphasize here that exchange and cooperation with China is a source of pleasure for Taiwan, as long as there is mutual respect. Exchange can replace oppression and dialogue can replace confrontation."

The Chinese Taiwan Affairs Office did not respond to a request for comment. Last week, the Chinese Defense Ministry described Lai as a "troublemaker in the Taiwan Strait," accusing him of escalating hostility and confrontation and undermining peace and stability.

Last month, China conducted military exercises around Taiwan, preceded by similar exercises in May and October 2024. In its daily report on Chinese military activities, the Taiwanese Ministry of Defense stated that it had detected six Chinese aircraft and 11 ships near the island over the past 24 hours.