Taiwan rang in National Day with renewed commitment to broadening democratic alliances and building international friendship.
This past Oct. 10, the Republic of China (Taiwan) marked its 110th National Day with a spirited celebration in front of the Presidential Office Building featuring a series of performances by the military and private groups followed by President Tsai Ing-wen’s (蔡英文) National Day address.
In a speech entitled “Forging a Stronger Consensus: Standing United to Protect Taiwan,” Tsai applauded the self-discipline and virtue of the Taiwan people in fighting COVID-19 and expressed her deep appreciation to Japan, the United States, Lithuania, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Poland for their generous vaccine donations.
The president went on to emphasize Taiwan’s determination to defend the country’s sovereignty and democracy at all costs and its willingness to ramp up contributions promoting peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. She also reiterated that Taiwan’s position on cross-strait relations remains the same and the two sides must engage in dialogue on the basis of parity to resolve differences.
The speech was followed by a parade showcasing the nation’s military might and honoring its Olympic and Paralympic athletes, COVID-19 responders and rescue teams. Festivities wrapped up with a bang as the air force’s Thunder Tiger Aerobatics Team released plumes of blue, red and white smoke over the city to represent the colors of the national flag.
—by Jim Hwang
People from all walks of life join together to sing the national anthem.
President Tsai Ing-wen delivers her National Day address.
The ROC Army
A member of the honor guard
A show organized by Chinese Taipei Gymnastic Association
This year’s celebration is scaled down due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Ministry of National Defense Honor Guard
The Joint Military Marching Band
A representative of the National Fire Agency
A performance by We.R Demonstration Team, which combines taekwondo with tricking and street dance
Coaches and athletes representing Taiwan at the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics make their appearance in the National Day parade.
Thunder Tiger Aerobatics Team wraps up the celebration in front of the Presidential Office Building.