Taiwan's peace overture amidst rising China tensions
The President of Taiwan, Lai Ching-te, declared on Tuesday that he will pursue peace with China. However, this does not signify that Taiwan will cease to arm itself. He assured that Taipei is prepared for trade exchanges and cooperation with Beijing, provided they are grounded in mutual respect.
Key information
- The President of Taiwan, Lai Ching-te, seeks dialogue with China.
- Taiwan is bolstering its defence amid tensions with Beijing.
- Lai announces the creation of a fund to support the technology economy.
President of Taiwan, Lai Ching-te, expressed his desire to engage in dialogue with China, while simultaneously emphasising the need to fortify the island's defence. Lai noted that Taipei is ready for trade cooperation with Beijing, provided it is built on mutual respect.
Lai emphasised that preparing for war is the best way to avert it. "I, too, am committed to peace. Because peace is priceless and war has no winners," said the President of Taiwan. He added that Taiwan must ensure its own security, as "when it comes to the pursuit of peace, one cannot harbour dreams or illusions."
Lai does not recognise China's claims to sovereignty over Taiwan, which has democratic governance. Authorities in Beijing label him a "separatist." Last week, China's Ministry of Defence called Lai the "Taiwan Strait crisis maker" accusing him of escalating tensions and confrontation between both sides and destabilising peace and order in the region.
Beijing's reactions
China accuses Lai of heightening tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Beijing does not rule out the use of force to take control of Taiwan, which encounters resistance from both the government and the island's society.
The President of Taiwan announced the creation of a sovereign wealth fund to support the tech-focused economy. This is a step towards strengthening Taiwan's position on the international stage.
Authorities in Taipei fear that Beijing might organise more military drills, increasing tensions in the region. Will Taiwan and China find a common path to peace, or will tensions continue to escalate?
