In his first New Year address since taking office in May 2024, Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te emphasized the importance of peaceful and respectful exchanges with China. He criticized China's actions, which he believes are hindering progress and undermining Taiwan's democracy. Lai pointed out that China is restricting civil society exchanges by preventing Chinese tourists and students from visiting Taiwan, which he sees as the real obstacle to dialogue.
Lai stressed the importance of peace across the Taiwan Strait for global security, highlighting the need for Taiwan to strengthen its defense against potential threats. His comments come amid increased military pressure from China, which views Taiwan as part of its territory and has conducted military exercises near the island.
Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China's determination to reunify with Taiwan, calling it an irreversible trend. Experts suggest that Lai is positioning Taiwan's situation as part of a global struggle between democracy and authoritarianism, aiming to strengthen international support for Taiwan's independence.
Zhiqun Zhu, a Chinese foreign policy expert, noted that Lai is focusing on enhancing Taiwan's defense capabilities and combating information warfare to deter Beijing's aggression.
Taiwan is an island located in East Asia, near China. It has its own government and operates like an independent country, but China claims it as part of its territory.
Lai Ching-te is the President of Taiwan. He is a leader who represents Taiwan and makes important decisions for the country.
Beijing is the capital city of China. When people refer to Beijing in political contexts, they often mean the Chinese government.
Xi Jinping is the President of China. He is the leader of the Chinese government and makes important decisions for the country.
Reunify means to bring together again. In this context, it means China wants Taiwan to become part of China again, as it was in the past.
Democracy is a system of government where people have the power to choose their leaders through voting. It allows citizens to have a say in how their country is run.
Authoritarianism is a system of government where one person or a small group holds all the power, and people have little say in how the country is run. It often limits personal freedoms and rights.
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