Taiwan has firmly reiterated its sovereignty following criticism from China over President Lai Ching-te’s National Day speech. The address, which Beijing accused of heightening tensions between the two regions, prompted Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry to assert that Taiwan and China are independent entities, stressing that the future of Taiwan should be decided by its 23 million residents.
In a statement, the ministry rejected China’s interference in Taiwan’s political matters and called on Beijing to recognize and respect the political differences that exist between the two sides, particularly Taiwan’s democratic governance. The ministry also urged China to refrain from activities that might escalate tensions or alter the status quo through force.
Emphasizing its commitment to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the broader Indo-Pacific region, Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry highlighted its intent to strengthen ties with democratic allies globally. This cooperation aims to safeguard Taiwan’s sovereignty and support its continued development.
The response from Taiwan comes amid ongoing cross-strait tensions, where China views Taiwan as a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve reunification. Taiwan, however, maintains that it is a sovereign state with its own government and seeks peaceful relations with China.
Taiwan’s stance is supported by its efforts to engage with international partners to bolster security and economic resilience, ensuring that its democratic values and way of life are preserved.