On January 31, 2025, Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te sent an engaging letter to Pope Francis, underlining the necessity for global organizations to include Taiwan within their discussions rather than marginalizing it due to geopolitical pressures from China. This plea came as part of his response to the pope's message for the World Day of Peace, which focuses on uniting efforts to address pressing global crises.
Recognizing the urgency of collective action, Lai echoed Pope Francis’s sentiments on the need to tackle worldwide issues collaboratively, stating, "Peace is priceless and war has no winners." He emphasized the importance of addressing global challenges, such as food security and climate change, highlighting it as imperative for contemporary governance.
Despite Taiwan's strong commitment to democracy and peace, the island has faced significant diplomatic isolation, primarily instigated by China, which regards Taiwan as part of its territory. Lai asserted, "I earnestly hope international organizations will stop excluding Taiwan for political reasons," reflecting the broader sentiment among many Taiwanese seeking inclusion on international platforms.
Historically, Taiwan has found itself sidelined from various global organizations, with China exerting considerable influence over these bodies to prevent representation from Taiwan. The Vatican is one of the few nations to maintain formal ties with Taiwan, yet even this relationship is under strain as the Holy See endeavors to strengthen its connection with Beijing, making Lai’s call for inclusion even more pressing.
During recent interactions, Lai reiterated the prevailing consensus among democratic nations wishing to uphold peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. He noted, "A high level of consensus has formed in the international community on upholding peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," underlining the strategic importance of Taiwan's security not only for its citizens but also for regional stability.
Feeling the weight of China’s political and military threats, Lai continues to advocate Taiwan's sovereignty and democratic values. He conveyed to Pope Francis Taiwan's commitment to the principles of peace and religious freedom, asserting, "Your Holiness has stated war is defeat for everyone. I, too, firmly believe peace is priceless and war has no winners." Such statements aim to reinforce the country’s position as a peaceful player on the international stage.
While Lai seeks to promote global cooperation, his message underlines the stark realities faced by Taiwan amid increasing pressure from larger, authoritarian forces. Taiwan's commitment to democracy, religious freedom, and active contributions to global issues stands as resilient pillars against this backdrop.
Notably, Taiwan has shown remarkable resilience, advocating global partnerships and cooperative efforts to tackle pressing issues like climate change. President Lai stated, "Taiwan is ready to take on its international responsibilities so it can contribute and share its valuable experience through many global platforms," signaling Taiwan’s willingness to collaborate rather than isolate itself from international discourse.
Overall, Lai's recent communication emphasizes both the challenges Taiwan faces on the international front and its unwavering commitment to peace, democracy, and cooperation. The hope remains for greater acknowledgment of Taiwan's sovereignty, particularly as global communities increasingly recognize the peaceful contributions Taiwan can make.
With Lai's firm resolve and the international community's growing attention toward Taiwan's plight for inclusion, the message is clear: Taiwan seeks not just to exist on the global stage but to thrive as an active participant, willing to contribute significantly to overcoming the world's most pressing challenges.