With immense pride and joy, I welcome you to TAIWAN BRIDGES, a landmark international program co-organized by National Taiwan University and Academia Sinica. This program has invited 31 Nobel laureates from a wide spectrum of disciplines to deliver lectures at leading academic institutions across Taiwan from November 2025 to May 2026. NTU and Academia Sinica are joined by 10 universities in sponsoring and hosting these exchanges, thereby expanding the program’s impact and outreach.

The caliber of the featured laureates is extraordinary. They include a pioneer in materials science, a voice for justice that transcends borders, a champion of global economic fairness, and trailblazers whose work redefines human understanding. Each laureate brings insights that link science with society, and innovation with humanity. Their presence here is not only a mark of distinction but also a gift to Taiwan’s academic community and public.

Yet, TAIWAN BRIDGES is more than just a lecture series; it is a living dialogue. It represents a vibrant, cross-cultural exchange of ideas, and serves as a platform where bold thinking meets deep empathy. Furthermore, it is a place where young minds are inspired to lead with curiosity and responsibility. As these laureates engage with our campuses and communities, Taiwan will further emerge as a hub for global thought, collaboration, and innovation.

This program would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of Chairman Uwe Morawetz of the International Peace Foundation. His tireless efforts to build cross-border platforms for intellectual and humanitarian collaboration have brought this visionary initiative to life across the globe, and now, to Taiwan. We are honored to join this global network, which marks a new starting point for deeper engagement between knowledge and peace.

I also wish to express my sincere appreciation to President Chen Wen-chang of National Taiwan University and President James C. Liao of Academia Sinica for serving as co-chairmen. Their leadership and institutional support have been instrumental in shaping this program. Their partnership reflects Taiwan’s highest academic ideals and the promotion of global cooperation and democratic values.

Special recognition goes to Dr. Lee Yuan-tseh, Nobel laureate in Chemistry and former president of Academia Sinica. As Taiwan’s first Nobel laureate, Dr. Lee has long stood as a symbol of scientific excellence and civic leadership. It was through his early advocacy and encouragement that the idea of bringing the program to Taiwan came to fruition. His influence laid the foundation for what we celebrate today.

Finally, I extend heartfelt appreciation to Chairman Raymond Soong of Lite-On Technology. His generous support and belief in the transformative power of intellectual exchange have helped turn this vision into reality. TAIWAN BRIDGES stands as a testament to what is possible when leadership, resources, and shared values converge for the public good.

I believe that in a world challenged by conflict, polarization, and distrust, our most powerful tools are inclusive dialogue, scientific partnership, and shared humanitarian values. As I stated in my inaugural address, Taiwan is a “pilot for global peace.” That promise is carried forward with initiatives like TAIWAN BRIDGES, where science, education, and diplomacy unite in pursuit of common ground and a better future.

To all participants—students, educators, researchers, and honored guests—I hope your time at TAIWAN BRIDGES inspires bold ideas, forges meaningful connections, and leads to lasting impact. Together, let us bridge borders, disciplines, and generations, and take a step together toward a future defined by peace, knowledge, and cooperation.

On behalf of the people of Taiwan, welcome, and I wish you a truly inspiring experience at TAIWAN BRIDGES.

Dr. Lai Ching-te

President, Republic of China (Taiwan)

Honorary Chairman, TAIWAN BRIDGES