Amid escalating tensions with Xi Jinping‘s China, Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen has championed her administration’s reforms and called for a “peaceful coexistence” with Beijing.
What Happened: “Taiwan has become a Taiwan of the world. We’re the most trusted, efficient, and safest partner in global democracy and international supply chain systems,” Tsai said in her address to foreign and local dignitaries at the National Day celebrations.
The President’s remarks come as Beijing intensifies import restrictions on Taiwanese goods and amplifies military activities in the region, reported Nikkei Asia
“Since this is a time we can now face the world with confidence and resolve, we can also be calm and self-assured in facing China, creating conditions for peaceful coexistence and future developments across the Taiwan Strait.”
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“Let me reiterate that ‘peace is the only option across the strait. Maintaining the status quo, as the largest common denominator for all sides, is the critical key to ensuring peace’,” she said.
She concluded by lauding Taiwan’s economic growth, international support, and key reforms under her leadership, including raising the minimum wage, transitioning to renewable energy, and legalizing same-sex marriage.
Why It Matters: Tsai, who was elected as Taiwan’s first female head of state in 2016, will step down after the elections next year in May.
Despite China’s increasing pressure through trade, military threats, and cyber warfare, Tsai’s Vice President Lai Ching-te maintains a significant lead in the upcoming presidential race. Beijing has recently labeled Lai a “troublemaker.”
China has been pushing for integration and peaceful reunification with Taiwan. Chinese President Xi had earlier reiterated the "one country, two systems" proposal for Taiwan, emphasizing the need to reunite the motherland.
Earlier, a Former U.S. intelligence director and rear admiral, Mike Studeman, also warned of the potentially "devastating" consequences of China instigating conflict in the Taiwan Strait. He suggests that President Xi is underestimating the aftereffects and that such a conflict could lead to the downfall of the Communist Party.
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