William Lai and Bi-khim Hsiao were inaugurated as Taiwan’s new President and Vice President respectively. The inauguration occurred at the Presidential Palace in the capital of Taipei at 9:00 a.m. local time on May 20th.
Both Lai and Hsiao step into the role as tensions increase between China and Taiwan as the island continues its efforts to increase its global footprint. China also renewed its push to entice Taiwan’s remaining diplomatic allies to switch their diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China.
Their inauguration also comes as China, the United States, and other countries increase tensions over their outreach to and meetings with Taiwanese officials.
