Image credits - Reuters
Singapore has extended congratulations to Taiwan’s newly elected president, William Lai Ching-te, who secured victory for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) on January 13. A spokesperson for Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) conveyed the country’s well-wishes, emphasizing the close and longstanding friendship shared with Taiwan and its people. The spokesperson also underscored Singapore’s commitment to the ‘One China’ policy while expressing support for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
Singapore’s MFA spokesperson highlighted the importance of dialogue, building trust, and pursuing cooperation between both sides of the strait. The spokesperson emphasized that such efforts contribute to regional stability and prosperity, aligning with the interests of Singapore and the broader international community.
Lai secured the presidency with 40.05% of the vote, surpassing the Kuomintang’s (KMT) candidate, Mr. Hou Yu-ih, and the Taiwan People’s Party’s (TPP) candidate, Dr. Ko Wen-je. Despite the DPP losing its legislative majority, winning 51 out of 113 seats, the KMT emerged as the leading party with 52 seats, and the TPP secured eight seats. Two seats went to independent candidates.
Lai, a proponent of Taiwan’s independence and former mayor of Tainan, extended an olive branch to the opposition and China in his victory speech. He emphasized the principles of dignity and parity, aiming to replace obstruction with exchanges and confrontation with dialogue. Lai expressed confidence in pursuing exchanges and cooperation with China, focusing on achieving peace and common prosperity for both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
China’s response to Lai’s victory was measured, with the Taiwan Affairs Office stating that the election results would not alter the basic landscape of cross-strait relations. Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, remarked that the DPP’s inability to represent mainstream public opinion on the island was evident from the election outcome.
As Singapore congratulates Taiwan on its election results, the responses from both sides of the strait indicate a nuanced approach to navigating the complex dynamics between Taiwan and China. The emphasis on dialogue and cooperation suggests a commitment to fostering peaceful relations and regional stability, even amid differing political ideologies.
In the wake of Taiwan’s historic election, Singapore’s congratulatory message and commitment to the ‘One China’ policy underscore the delicate diplomatic landscape, where hopes for dialogue, cooperation, and regional stability persist despite the nuanced dynamics between Taiwan and China.