TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) spokeperson stressed Wednesday (Nov. 22) that the party and President Tsai Ing-wen maintain a non-provocative stance toward cross-strait relations, committed to pursuing peace — a position recognized internationally.
The comments from Chang Chih-hao come in response to criticism from China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) the previous day, which censured DPP's presidential candidate Lai Ching-te for downplaying the dangers posed by Taiwan independence activities.
Hsiao Bi-khim, known for her support of such ideals, is Lai's running mate, forming what the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) labels the "Lai-Hsiao Ticket" — a duo of independence advocates.
Chang accused the CCP of attempting to interfere in Taiwan's elections by creating a sense of fear of war and threatening the Taiwanese people, while simultaneously backing the Blue-White alliance and disparaging the Lai-Hsiao pair.
Amid these tensions, Chang argued that Taiwan has not participated in any form of provocation; however, he claimed the CCP continues to foster and market fear of warfare, arming China in a manner that threatens peace. Such actions solidify China's international image as a "troublemaker" and a "rogue state," according to Chang.
Reinforcing the presidency's position, Chang emphasized that Tsai Ing-wen and Lai Ching-te have made it clear they will not yield under pressure nor revert to former ways of confrontation.
Chang stressed that the DPP is set to continue defending Taiwan's democracy, peace, and prosperity, even in the face of heightened rhetoric and accusations from the mainland.
As the political atmosphere grows more charged, the DPP remains focused on protecting Taiwan's interests and sustaining its democratic values.