Colorful Lunar New Year Celebrations in Taiwan

The Lunar New Year of the Dragon has ignited vibrant festivities across Asian nations and overseas communities, marked by fireworks, feasts, and the traditional exchange of red envelopes filled with cash for children. The celebration spans 15 days, commencing with the first new moon of the lunar calendar and concluding on the first full moon, its timing fluctuating yearly between late January and mid-February.

In Taiwan, the Year of the Dragon festivities saw the participation of prominent political figures, including newly elected president Lai Ching-te and Han Kuo-yu, the speaker of the Legislature representing the opposition Nationalist Party. The Nationalist Party favors political unification with China, adding a nuanced political dimension to the celebrations.

During the festivities, President Lai Ching-te addressed the nation, emphasizing the ongoing conflict between “freedom and democracy versus authoritarianism.” She highlighted the impact of this conflict on geopolitical stability and global supply chain restructuring. Lai also underlined Taiwan’s commitment to its promises, maintaining the status quo, and reinforcing national defense over the past eight years.

Despite Taiwan’s close economic ties with China, the island democracy faces political tensions, with China’s threat of invasion looming over its high-tech economy.