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Taiwan’s new President emphasises peace, urges China to cease aggression
In his inaugural address, Taiwan's new President, Lai Ching-te, asked China to end its military and political intimidation of Taiwan, arguing that peace is the only realistic option.
Taiwan President-elect Lai Ching-te, of Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP), holds a press conference, following the victory in the presidential elections, in Taipei, Taiwan January 13, 2024. REUTERS/Ann Wang
In his inaugural address, Taiwan’s new President, Lai Ching-te, asked China to end its military and political intimidation of Taiwan, arguing that peace is the only realistic option. Speaking in central Taipei, Lai emphasised the importance of Beijing respecting the Taiwanese people’s wishes.
China responded by accusing Lai of sending “dangerous signals” that might destabilise the area, underlining its position that Taiwan’s quest for independence is incompatible with peace across the Taiwan Strait.
Lai underlined his commitment to engagement with China, stating that Taiwan will not compromise its democratic principles and freedom. He warned that even if Taiwan agreed to all of China’s demands, Beijing’s desire to invade Taiwan would not lessen. Lai’s tough stance on Taiwan’s sovereignty echoed his predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen, who stated that the Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China are “not subordinate to each other.”
Former US officials, parliamentarians from various countries, and leaders from the few nations that still have formal diplomatic connections with Taiwan also attended the inauguration. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken thanked Lai and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to developing its unofficial relationship with Taiwan while maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The inauguration ceremony featured a show of military and cultural pride, including a flypast by Taiwanese fighter jets and a sing-along led by Lai and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim. Lai’s outfit, which represented native butterflies and mustard blossoms, as well as the acceptance of presidential seals, highlighted Taiwan’s government’s historical continuity and symbolic significance.
Domestically, Lai is facing enormous hurdles after his Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) lost its parliamentary majority. Recent parliamentary sessions have been characterised by heated debates and physical altercations over proposed reforms. As he begins his president, Lai’s demands for peace and unwavering defence of Taiwan’s sovereignty will be important to his leadership, given the island’s complicated relationship with China and internal political dynamics.
