TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) hailed Taiwan as a major democratic ally on Thursday.

During a meeting with Ryan Hass, director of the China Center and Taiwan studies chair at the Brookings Institution, Lai said Taiwan was now “the world’s Taiwan.” The country is a key hub in the “democratic value chain” and an indispensable part of the non-Chinese supply chain, according to the Presidential Office.

Taiwan’s achievements are due to its people’s dedication to democracy and hard work, and the steadfast support of international friends, especially from the US government, Congress, and think tanks.

Lai said that in the face of China’s increasing threats and pressure, Taiwan has been implementing a four-pillar peace action plan, which includes strengthening national defense, building economic security, and partnering with like-minded countries such as the US.

Taiwan will continue to deepen economic and trade relations with the US to create win–win outcomes, Lai added.