Lai Ching-te urges China to accept Taiwan's existence in inaugural speech

TAIPEI -- Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te, was sworn in on Monday, completing his ascent from humble beginnings to the top office and calling on China to respect the will of voters.

"I hope that China will face up to the fact that the Republic of China exists, respect the choice of the Taiwanese people, show sincerity, and replace confrontation with dialogue," he said in his inaugural speech, drawing applause. He urged Beijing to engage "with Taiwan's democratically elected and legitimate government on the basis of the principles of reciprocity and dignity."