US Criticizes China’s Actions Against Taiwan Independence Supporters
The United States has sharply criticized China’s recent actions and rhetoric towards Taiwan, describing them as provocative and unsettling. This condemnation comes in response to Beijing’s announcement of new judicial measures aimed at penalizing individuals who advocate for Taiwan’s independence.
China’s New Guidelines
China’s new guidelines, unveiled on June 21, include severe penalties such as the death sentence for what it terms ‘diehard’ supporters of Taiwan independence. Under these directives, individuals convicted of inciting secession or other serious offenses related to Taiwan independence may face capital punishment, even in absentia.
Legal Framework
According to China’s state-run Xinhua News Agency, the guidelines outline the legal framework for prosecuting ‘Taiwan independence’ activities, asserting their criminal nature, and specifying the procedures for imposing penalties. Xinhua characterizes these measures as building upon the foundation laid by China’s 2005 Anti-Secession Law.
Response from Taiwan
In response to China’s move, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te vehemently defended Taiwan’s democratic principles, emphasizing that ‘democracy is not a crime, whereas autocracy is.’ He criticized China’s attempt to punish Taiwanese citizens for expressing their political views, asserting that China lacks the authority to dictate or prosecute such matters.
‘According to China’s logic, not supporting unification equates to supporting Taiwan independence,’ President Lai remarked, calling on Beijing to acknowledge the Republic of China’s existence and engage in diplomatic dialogue with Taiwan’s democratically elected government.
US Stance
The United States reiterated its stance advocating for meaningful dialogue between China and Taiwan, emphasizing that coercion and legal threats are counterproductive to resolving differences across the Taiwan Strait peacefully. The US continues to urge both parties to uphold stability and avoid actions that could escalate tensions or alter the current state of affairs unilaterally.
