Taiwan moves towards independent satellite launch, Lai Qingde promotes dual-track development of ocean and space

President Lai Ching-te went south to Kaohsiung today (13th) to preside over the unveiling ceremony of the National Marine Science and Technology Operations Center. In his speech, he pointed out that Taiwan is steadily moving towards the goal of independently launching satellites. The National Marine Science and Technology Operations Center is equipped with a marine basic data survey ship and a national ship model laboratory, which are two core facilities for Taiwan to deepen the governance of marine science and technology. He emphasized that improving marine science and technology is an overall plan of the national strategy. He hopes that through improving the recruitment, cultivation and retention system, young people and professionals who are interested in investing in the ocean can invest with peace of mind.

The National Ocean Science and Technology Operation Center is located in the Marine Commission Building. The deputy chairman of the Marine Commission and the chairman of the Marine Commission serve as the chairman. Lai Qingde, chairman of the Marine Commission Guan Biling and others co-hosted the unveiling ceremony.

Lai Ching-te said that in his inauguration speech two years ago, he specifically proposed the national direction of "competing for space" and "exploring the ocean." The government actively promotes the third phase of the National Space Science and Technology Development Long-range Plan, supports independent research and development of satellites and rockets, and gradually builds related facilities to steadily move towards the goal of independently launching satellites. Regarding ocean exploration, it continues to implement marine policies and improve marine conservation laws. In August this year, it also went to Kaohsiung to witness the launch of the 100-ton and 300-ton marine basic data survey ships of the National Academy of Sciences.

He said that the basic marine data survey ship will continue to conduct in-depth investigations of the marine environment, accumulate marine hydrogeology, ecology and other key data; while the National Ship Model Laboratory can complement the adaptability of domestic high-end ships and support ship design, performance testing, and the research and development of key technologies.

He pointed out that in the face of increasingly complex regional situations, accumulating marine data through independent surveys and understanding the surrounding maritime environment will not only help improve maritime situational awareness and decision-making support capabilities, strengthen Taiwan's national security and the resilience of maritime governance, but also support the development of ships and marine industries and enhance Taiwan's international competitiveness.

He emphasized that improving marine science and technology is an overall plan of the national strategy. He will continue to promote cross-field cooperation, enrich professional energy, and improve the recruitment, training and retention system, so that young people and experienced professionals can invest with peace of mind and work hard for a long time.