TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te reiterated on Thursday (Aug. 24) that Taiwan has no plans to declare independence, stating that the Taiwan Strait is an international issue and urged the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region.
During an interview on ERATV, Lai asserted Taiwan is essentially an independent and sovereign nation, substantiated by regular local and national elections. Hence, there is no need for an additional declaration of independence.
Lai clarified his previous remarks about "having no framework" to pursue Taiwan's formal independence in the interview, explaining that the comment asserts Taiwan's de facto status as an independent nation.
He also underscored that maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait should not only be Taiwan's concern but a global one, emphasizing, "Threats from China are not merely a problem Taiwan is facing, but a worldwide issue."
Lai highlighted the words of world leaders, including Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, claiming "red lines established internationally are Taiwan's red lines as well."
The Vice President thus stressed the importance of the global community's efforts in upholding peace and stability in the area.