Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, in an interview with the island's local media, addressed China's claims on Taiwan and its territorial integrity. He argued that if China's claims are truly about territorial integrity, then it should also take back land from Russia that was signed over by the last Chinese dynasty in the 19th century.
China views Taiwan, a democratically governed island, as its own territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring it under its control. Taiwan's government firmly rejects these claims, asserting that only the island's people can decide their future.
During an interview with a Taiwanese television station that aired late on Sunday, Lai, whom China labels as a "separatist," mentioned the 1858 Treaty of Aigun. In this treaty, China ceded a vast tract of land in what is now Russia's far east to the Russian empire, establishing much of the current border along the Amur River.
6 Comments
Karamba
Lai's statement is a courageous act of defiance against China's authoritarian regime and their attempts to control the narrative.
Matzomaster
This statement is a welcome reminder that China's power and influence cannot silence the voices of those fighting for their rights.
Rotfront
This statement undermines the seriousness of China's claims on Taiwan and portrays a flippant attitude towards a crucial issue.
Loubianka
This statement gives hope to the people of Taiwan and shows that the international community is paying attention to their struggle for independence.
Noir Black
This is a powerful message from Taiwan to the world, showing that they will not be intimidated by China's threats and will continue to fight for their independence.
Eugene Alta
Cheap historical analogies like this only serve to fuel nationalism and distract from the real issue of Taiwan's future.