TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Vice President Lai Ching-te rebutted notions of youth war participation stemming from an eventual vote for his party in an interview on Monday (Aug. 7), emphasizing peace and friendship with China.
In the political talk show "Cheng Knows," the Democratic Progressive Party's presidential candidate mooted that Taiwan could be a significant ally for China in resolving disputes through mutual respect and peaceful development, saying, "Taiwan does not intend to counterattack China. We can be friends."
"China really does not need to behave like this. The current policy toward Taiwan is wrong," Lai said, "We do not want to be enemies with China. We can be friends."
Lai further explained democracy as the pinnacle of cross-strait relations because democracy is the consensus of Taiwan, stressing that regardless of party differences, people in Taiwan recognize the significance of democracy.
Lai also acknowledged that while Taiwan respects businesses operating in the U.S., Japan, Europe, or other places, some need to remain in China. The Taiwan government would respect their decision and would not force them to relocate.