Lai Ching-te sworn in as Taiwan's president

Lai Ching-te took office as Taiwan's next president on Monday, appointing a somewhat centrist leader who will uphold the de facto independence of the self-governing island democracy and work to strengthen its defences against China. 

For the occasion, thousands of people gathered in front of Taipei's Presidential Office Building. 

The guests, sporting white bucket hats, observed the emcees of the ceremony explaining Lai's arrival on big screens. There would be a military march and artistic performances outside after the swearing-in.

Politicians from the United governments, Japan, and several European governments, as well as delegations from the 12 countries that have formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, congratulated Lai. 

Lai, also known by his English name William, has vowed to carry on the efforts of his predecessor to keep the peace between the two sides while strengthening Taiwan's security through the importation of cutting-edge fighters and other technology from the United States, a close ally, the growth of the defence industry by producing aircraft and submarines, and the strengthening of regional alliances with Taiwan's unofficial allies, including the United States, Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines.

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