He served as president of Taiwan, from 1988 to 2000.

Former Taiwanese President Lee Teng-hui passed away. He served as president of Taiwan from 1988 to 2000. He was also considered as the “father of Taiwan’s democracy”.

Lee was credited with ending autocratic rule in favour of pluralism and democracy - but was also a controversial figure.

His attempts to delink the island from China sparked tensions with Beijing, which sees Taiwan as part of its territory to be reunited one day.

During his time in office he led constitutional changes towards a more democratic political layout, including direct presidential elections.

Current President Tsai Ing-wen said "he laid the foundation of a democracy built on pride and our own identity".

Lee Teng-hui became president in 1988 after the demise of predecessor, Chiang Ching-kuo. Lee also led constitutional changes towards a democratic political layout, including direct presidential elections. He also served as the mayor of Taipei (1978-81) and the provincial governor of Taiwan (1981-84).