Despite China’s recent military drills around Taiwan, the island’s newly sworn-in President Lai Ching-te emphasized his readiness to work with Beijing for regional stability.
The drills, part of China’s ongoing intimidation campaign, began just days after Lai took office, underscoring the tense relationship as China views Taiwan as part of its territory.
During the two-day military exercises, China issued stark warnings against Taiwan’s independence efforts. Yet, President Lai, speaking on Sunday, expressed his desire for reconciliation and mutual understanding with China, aiming for peace and prosperity through cooperation.
Lai reaffirmed his commitment to Taiwan’s defence and openness to dialogue, a stance consistent with former President Tsai Ing-wen’s policies. Communications between the two sides were cut in 2016 when Tsai, of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), took office with a pledge to defend Taiwan’s sovereignty.
The situation remains tense with frequent Chinese military activities near Taiwan.
On Sunday, Taiwan’s defense ministry reported continued presence of Chinese aircraft and naval vessels
around the island. Meanwhile, internal challenges loom as Lai’s DPP faces opposition bills and protests in parliament, testing his administration’s ability to manage both domestic and international pressures.
