President Lai Ching-te’s Offer for Talks with China
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te reiterated his willingness to engage in talks with China following recent military drills near the island.
Background
- Lai expressed his commitment to enhancing mutual understanding and reconciliation with China through exchanges and cooperation.
- China conducted military exercises near Taiwan in response to Lai’s inauguration speech, which Beijing viewed as a push for the island’s independence.
- China considers Taiwan as its own territory and has criticized Lai as a “separatist.”
President Lai’s Stance
President Lai rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims and emphasizes that Taiwan’s future should be decided by its people. Despite repeated offers for talks, China has declined.
Call for Regional Stability
During a meeting of his ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in Tainan, Lai urged China to cooperate in maintaining regional stability and peace.
International Response
Lai expressed gratitude for the concern shown by the United States and other countries regarding China’s military activities near Taiwan. He emphasized the importance of upholding regional stability.
Condemnation of China’s Actions
Taiwan’s government has condemned China’s war games and criticized its ongoing military pressure on the island over the past few years.