Vice President Hsiao: Taiwan is 'Small but Powerful' Thanks to Tech and Open Society

Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim spoke at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Harvard-Taiwan English Leadership Program, held at National Taiwan University. She emphasized that while Taiwan is sometimes perceived as a small nation, its robust technological capabilities and open society have forged it into a "small but powerful" country.

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Taiwan is sometimes called a 'small country,' but it has become a 'small but powerful' country thanks to its technological strength and open society.

Hsiao urged the young participants to embrace five key qualities, communication, creativity, courage, curiosity, and confidence, as essential tools for leadership. These traits, she explained, are vital for navigating the complex landscape of geopolitical tensions and rapid technological advancements, including artificial intelligence.

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Communication is not just about speaking boldly, but also about maintaining humility and understanding that others may have greater insight into certain issues.

Addressing the current era's extraordinary challenges, such as climate change and geopolitical conflicts, Hsiao noted that these issues test national security, sovereignty, democracy, and the survival of free societies. She stressed that leadership, effective communication, and technological understanding are crucial for shaping the future. Hsiao also highlighted the importance of humility in communication, recognizing that others may possess deeper insights, fostering an environment for innovation and progress.

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We should be proud because the technological strength Taiwan has built, and the open society that the people of Taiwan have built together, have made us a small but powerful country.

Reflecting on Taiwan's global role, Hsiao acknowledged the nation's diverse voices and ongoing debates, asserting that this very diversity strengthens the country. It cultivates an open attitude toward new ideas and mutual learning, bolstering confidence in Taiwan's position on the world stage. She expressed pride in Taiwan's technological achievements and its open society, which collectively contribute to its status as a "small but powerful" nation. Hsiao envisioned the attendees becoming future diplomats, artists, communicators, innovators, and builders, ultimately leading Taiwan and the world.

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The most important thing is that you will become future leaders, using the five qualities of communication, creativity, courage, curiosity, and confidence to lead Taiwan and lead the world.