Former Polish president Lech Wałęsa said in an interview with the Central News Agency that Taiwan is a “master” at finding the right balance under pressure from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). He emphasized that as the world undergoes restructuring, the Chinese-speaking world must unite to counter communism—but on the basis of sound principles—and that Taiwan can provide solutions.
Wałęsa, Poland’s first democratically elected president, first visited Taiwan during its inaugural direct presidential election in 1996. This year marks the 30th anniversary of Taiwan’s direct presidential elections, and Wałęsa has returned to attend the 9th Yushan Forum.
In the interview, Wałęsa said Taiwan has struggled and worked hard to reach where it is today, facing numerous crises and challenges. The CCP frequently pressures Taiwan, but Taiwan has achieved a very good balance that deserves global admiration. He expressed hope that Taiwan will continue on this path. Although Poland is geographically distant from Taiwan, he said he fully supports and welcomes Taiwan’s efforts.
Wałęsa stressed that the world is being reshaped toward a trend where a single dominant power could emerge—possibly the United States, Russia, or China. Any one-country dominance would weaken others. Taiwan must understand how to position itself, adding, “I hope Taiwan is not forcibly taken by China.”
He noted that all achievements gained through force will ultimately fail, including those of China. The Chinese-speaking world must unite, but on the foundation of sound principles. Taiwan can offer many good solutions, while communism fundamentally cannot. He also warned against potential CCP action against Taiwan, saying it would be meaningless for both sides.
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Citing the success of Solidarity (Solidarność), Wałęsa pointed out that Europe opened its borders and established the eurozone, allowing people to work and interact across countries. If the world had followed Europe’s path, there would be far fewer wars today. However, he stressed that sincerity and peaceful intentions are essential—without them, and with the use of force, failure is inevitable. He warned China not to repeat history, noting that even though the Soviet Union once occupied much of Europe, it ultimately collapsed.
Wałęsa became involved in peaceful strikes in the 1970s, forcing authorities to recognize Solidarity, the first independent trade union in the communist bloc. It was also the first labor organization in Eastern Europe not controlled by a communist party. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1983.
When asked how unity in the Chinese-speaking world could be achieved, Wałęsa joked, “If I knew, I would win another Nobel Peace Prize.” He said his experience from revolutionary movements offers reliable insights, but they must be rethought and adapted to Taiwan’s specific situation. Ultimately, Taiwan must decide its own path.
Wałęsa concluded that Taiwan has handled pressure from China well and has found an appropriate balance—“Taiwan is a master.”
