President-elect Lai vows to defend Taiwan; says people resisted 'external forces' in election

Taiwan President-elect Lai Ching-te, of Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) and his running mate Hsiao Bi-khim wave as they hold a press conference, following the victory in the presidential elections, in Taipei, Taiwan, on Saturday, January 13, 2024. - Reuters

TAIPEI (AFP): Taiwan's victorious presidential candidate Lai Ching-te vowed Saturday to defend the self-ruled island from Chinese "intimidation".

"We are determined to safeguard Taiwan from continuing threats and intimidation from China," he said in his victory speech, while also pledging to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.