President-elect Lai Ching-te has been named one of Time magazine’s most influential people of 2024. Lai’s entry for the annual ranking was written by former U.S. Ambassador to China John Huntsman, who compared Lai to the mythological Atlas who must shoulder the world.

Time magazine has released its list of this year’s 100 most influential people. Lai Ching-te, who will become Taiwan president on May 20, was included in the Leaders category, alongside Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos and Chinese Premier Li Qiang. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang was listed under Innovators.

Olivia Lin
Presidential Office spokesperson
This international recognition affirms the democratic achievements of the people of Taiwan. In the future, Vice President Lai will uphold Taiwan’s democracy. He will work with likeminded nations to maintain regional peace and stability and lead the nation forward.

On its webpage introducing Lai, Time magazine features a contemplative portrait of him and a tribute written by a prominent U.S. politician.

Jon Huntsman, Jr., who ran in the 2012 Democratic presidential primaries, is a former governor of Utah and one-time U.S. ambassador to China. In his tribute, he introduced Lai as Taiwan’s next president. Lai is inheriting the large task of “ensuring his government’s very survival” amid Chinese aggression, he wrote. The article noted that Taiwan supplies more than half of the world’s chips, but has never been at higher risk due to tensions with China. Huntsman said that for Lai, the tasks ahead might make him feel like “Atlas shouldering the world.” He said Lai’s decisions will affect the world and the future of democracy in Asia. On social media, Lai responded to the tribute, writing that Taiwan will continue to take steady and confident steps forward, as it shoulders the responsibilities of the times.

Lin Chun-hsien
DPP lawmaker
This is not just a personal achievement for Lai Ching-te, but one for the entire nation. It highlights the importance of Taiwan. Because of our geopolitical position and economic strength, the international spotlight shines on Taiwan’s president.

This isn’t the first time Taiwan’s leadership made Time’s list of influential people. President Tsai Ing-wen was included twice. With its leadership making global headlines, it’s clear that the eyes of the world are on Taiwan.

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