President William Lai has vowed to uphold Taiwan’s self-governance in his most prominent public address since assuming office earlier this year.
In a clear but indirect reference to China’s claims over the island, Lai reaffirmed his “commitment to resist any attempts at annexation or infringement on our sovereignty.”
He also emphasized the importance of maintaining “peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait” while expressing a willingness to cooperate with Beijing on issues such as climate change, fighting infectious diseases, and ensuring regional security.
In response to Lai’s remarks, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized his stance, saying it revealed his “uncompromising position” on Taiwan’s independence.
Lai delivered his speech in Taipei as part of Taiwan’s National Day celebrations, just nine days after Communist China marked its 75th anniversary.
via BBC
