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On Saturday, a spokesperson for China’s State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, Chen Binhua, condemned Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te’s recent remarks advocating for what he described as “self-salvation” for Taiwan. Chen accused Lai of promoting “Taiwan independence” and aggravating tensions across the Taiwan Strait.
The criticism came in response to Lai’s comments, which Chen argued were a blatant attempt to push for independence under the guise of democracy and freedom. Chen accused Lai and his Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of misrepresenting the will of the Taiwanese people and imposing a divisive agenda on the island.
According to Chen, Lai’s stance risks leading Taiwan into conflict, endangering the safety of its people and potentially causing long-term suffering for future generations. He asserted that such a move would not only destabilise the region but also undermine the principles of genuine democracy and freedom that Lai claims to champion.
Chen urged Taiwanese citizens to recognise that the push for “Taiwan independence” represents a direct threat to regional peace and their own security. He called on them to oppose both the independence agenda and external interference that could exacerbate the situation.
The statement reflects ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan, with Beijing consistently opposing any moves towards formal independence by the island nation. This latest exchange underscores the deepening rift and the ongoing struggle for influence over Taiwan’s political trajectory.
The comments from Chen come amid a backdrop of escalating political discourse between the two sides, highlighting the significant challenges in cross-strait relations and the broader implications for regional stability.