Taiwan remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving its democratic way of life and resisting Chinese Communist rule, declared Taiwan President Lai Ching-te on Friday. Lai made these remarks during a visit to a pivotal island between Taiwan and China, commemorating a battle with Chinese forces.
As Lai delivered his speech, China’s military was executing another series of maneuvers around Taiwan, highlighting what Taiwan perceives as Beijing’s persistent efforts to destabilize the region.
Taiwan has governed the Kinmen and Matsu islands—situated close to the Chinese mainland—since 1949, following the retreat of the Republic of China government after its defeat in the civil war against Mao Zedong’s communists. Despite this, no formal peace agreement or armistice has been signed.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te reaffirms commitment to democracy during Chinese military maneuvers
Kinmen, once a hotspot of intermittent conflict during the Cold War, has seen increased patrols by China’s coast guard since February, following a tragic incident involving a speedboat that Beijing attributed to Taipei. This was Lai’s inaugural visit to Kinmen since taking office in May. At the memorial park, he laid a wreath and honored the anniversary of a clash with Chinese forces that marked the beginning of the second Taiwan Strait crisis.
Speaking off the cuff, Lai recounted hearing stories of the battle from his uncle who served in Kinmen. He emphasized Taiwan’s resolve to resist Chinese intimidation, stating that Taiwan is committed to peaceful development across the Taiwan Strait and values democracy, freedom, human rights, and the rule of law.
Following Lai’s return to Taipei, Taiwan’s defense ministry reported detecting 27 Chinese military aircraft conducting a “joint combat readiness patrol” with naval vessels around the Taiwan Strait. This activity coincided with Lai’s visit, although China’s defense ministry has not commented on the connection.
Taiwan plans to increase its defense spending by 7.7% next year, surpassing anticipated economic growth, to bolster its military capabilities in response to Beijing’s growing threats. China, which regards Taiwan as part of its territory, has labeled Lai a “separatist.” Lai maintains that Taiwan’s future should be decided by its people and remains open to dialogue with China.
Jessica Chen, a member of Kinmen’s parliament from the opposition Kuomintang party, expressed concern over the potential for her home to become a conflict zone and advocated for peace across the Taiwan Strait. Kinmen, located less than 1.2 miles from Chinese-controlled territory, remains a popular tourist destination despite its military presence. The 1958 crisis, which involved extensive bombardment by Chinese forces, is commemorated annually by Taiwan on August 23 as the day it successfully repelled the Chinese attack.
