FOSTER CITY, Calif.—Taiwan and the United States share a commitment to democracy, freedom, resilience, and technological innovation, speakers said at a celebration of Taiwan’s 115th National Day held on Oct. 7 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Foster City.

The celebration brought together Taiwanese representatives, U.S. elected officials, overseas Taiwanese community leaders, and other guests. Former Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen attended the event as she was visiting the United States for the first time since she left office in 2024.

David Wu, director-general of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in San Francisco, said the occasion had special meaning for both Taiwan and the United States. Taiwan held its first direct presidential election 30 years ago, while the United States celebrated its 250th birthday this year.

“Two democracies are different. They have different stories, but we share a fundamental belief,” Wu said at the event. “Freedom is never free, and democracy should never be taken for granted.”

Wu said Taiwan continues to face military intimidation, economic coercion, disinformation, and efforts to restrict its international participation. He expressed gratitude for growing bipartisan support for Taiwan in California, Utah, and Nevada, the U.S. states that Wu’s office works with.

He also mentioned technology as a major pillar of the Taiwan-U.S. relationship, saying Taiwan plays an “indispensable role” in advanced semiconductors, AI servers, and global technology supply chains.

“Silicon Valley imagines the impossible, but Taiwan figures out how to make it and build it,” Wu said. “Together, we helped build the digital age, and together we can help build the AI age.”

Wu said Taiwan is strengthening its defense capabilities and whole-of-society resilience while working with the United States and other democratic partners to preserve peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

“Our goal is not conflict,” Wu said. “Our goal is peace through strength, resilience, and partnership.”

California state Sen. Dave Cortese, representing the California Legislature, reaffirmed California’s commitment to its relationship with Taiwan. He described it as an important economic relationship from which both sides benefit.

“Know that we stand with you always,” he said at the event. “Know that we will protect the relationship always, in every way possible, in every way in our power.”

Cortese said the commitment extends beyond him personally, saying the California State Senate and the entire state legislature share that commitment.

Overseas Community Affairs Council Commissioner Wei Dezhen emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to democracy, freedom, and human rights and thanked American friends for joining the celebration.

“Let Taiwan be seen by the world, and let the world see Taiwan,” Wei said.

Former Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen speaks at a Taiwanese National Day celebration in Foster City, Calif., on Oct. 7, 2026. (Nathan Su/The Epoch Times)

Tsai Thanks Taiwanese Americans

Tsai’s appearance drew a large round of applause from attendees.

Speaking to Taiwanese Americans and U.S. friends, Tsai thanked those who have built their lives in the United States while contributing to their families and local communities.

She said Taiwanese Americans have helped Americans understand Taiwan not only through its technology and popular culture, but also through the warmth, kindness, and humanity of its people.

“Taiwan, step by step, has walked into the world,” Tsai said, noting that Taiwanese people overseas have continued to make friends for Taiwan and help more people understand the island.

Although she is no longer president, Tsai said she still wants to represent Taiwan when she meets Taiwanese communities overseas and express her gratitude for their contributions.

She also thanked American friends for their longstanding friendship and support for Taiwan.

The celebration concluded with a toast to Taiwan and a reaffirmation of friendship between Taiwan and the United States.