Economist Podcasts

See how the Lai lands: Taiwan’s new president

4 snips
May 22, 2024
Join Alice Hsu, Senior China correspondent; Mike Bird, Asia business and finance editor; and Catherine Nixie, Britain correspondent, as they dissect Taiwan's new president, William Lai. They discuss his struggle to unify a divided nation while navigating China's pressures. The conversation shifts to the shrinking stock market as firms favor private ownership over public listings. They also humorously explore the shift from lonely hearts ads to dating apps, reflecting on how technology shapes modern relationships amid persistent human loneliness.
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ANECDOTE

Taiwan's New President

  • William Lai, Taiwan's new president, was inaugurated with a 21-gun salute and the national anthem.
  • Many Taiwanese, including Lai, identify with Taiwanese sovereignty, not China.
INSIGHT

Lai's Balancing Act

  • William Lai, while pragmatic and moderate, advocates for Taiwan's sovereignty, causing tension with China.
  • In his inauguration speech, Lai called for peace and stability while denouncing China's intimidation tactics.
INSIGHT

Taiwanese Public Opinion

  • Public opinion in Taiwan favors maintaining the status quo with China, aligning with Lai's stance.
  • A majority of Taiwanese also support reciprocal cross-strait exchanges.
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