Taiwan Should Deepen Trade With Democracies, Not China, Taiwanese President Says

President Lai Ching-te says his administration will continue to deepen Taiwan–U.S. economic and trade relations and diversify the island’s technology presence.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te speaks at a news conference on the latest round of economic talks with the United States, in Taipei, Taiwan, on Feb. 3, 2026. Ann Wang/Reuters

TAIPEI, Taiwan—Taiwan should prioritise economic cooperation with other democracies rather than China, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te said on Feb. 3, as his administration set out plans for deeper cooperation with the United States in key sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI) and critical minerals.

Speaking at a news conference at the Presidential Office, Lai praised the outcome of the sixth round of the U.S.–Taiwan Economic Prosperity Partnership Dialogue in Washington last week.