Taiwan's democracy thrives on embracing differences: VP Hsiao

Taipei, Aug. 29 (CNA) Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) said Friday that the people of Taiwan have demonstrated the value of democracy by "embracing differences and connecting with one another" during the 2025 National Prayer Breakfast in Taiwan.

The past year has been marked by "major shifts in global circumstances," Hsiao told the religious event in Taipei, which was also attended by foreign representatives from the United States, Israel and Hungary.

"Amid turbulent times, [we] see Taiwan's resilience, and its people continue to embrace differences, connect with one another and demonstrate the most cherished values of democracy," she said.

The vice president also prayed for the nation, expressing hope that "the divisions and confrontations within our society" would be resolved.

She did not specify the external or domestic challenges facing Taiwan, but the Democratic Progressive Party recently suffered a major setback when a campaign it backed to recall 31 Kuomintang lawmakers ended in defeat.

The results prompted a Cabinet reshuffle earlier this week, with President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) pledging to step up dialogue with the opposition on the nation's key issues.

At the same time, Taiwan's economy is grappling with 20 percent tariffs imposed by the U.S. on most goods imported from Taiwan and potential levies on semiconductor and information and communication technology products.