Taiwan’s president says China can’t represent the island (original) (raw)

STORY: :: Taiwan’s leader Lai Ching-te says mainland China can’t represent the island

:: Beijing claims Taiwan as its own, a view the island's government rejects

:: October 10, 2024

:: Taipei, Taiwan

:: Lai Ching-te, Taiwan President

“The Republic of China has already put down roots in Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu. And it is not subordinate to the People’s Republic of China. On this land, democracy and freedom are growing and thriving. The People’s Republic of China has no right to represent Taiwan. The 23 million people of Taiwan, now more than ever, must reach out our branches to embrace the future.”

Lai, who took office in May after winning an election in January, is detested by China which calls him a "separatist". Beijing claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, a view Lai and his government reject.

Giving a keynote speech outside the presidential office in Taipei, Lai reiterated that the Republic of China – the island’s formal name – is “not subordinate to the People’s Republic of China”. Taiwan’s determination to defend its sovereignty, maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait and seek equal and dignified talks with China all remain unchanged, Lai added.

National Day in Taiwan marks the overthrow of the last Chinese dynasty in 1911 and the ushering in of the Republic of China. The defeated republican government fled to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war with Mao Zedong's communists.

The Republic of China remains Taiwan's formal name, and no peace treaty or armistice has ever been signed.