TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Kuomintang presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih and his running mate Chao Shao-kang reiterated on Sunday (Dec. 10) that Beijing has never renounced the use of force against Taiwan, emphasizing the importance of Taiwan's democracy in the face of Chinese pressure.
During an interview with the National Broadcasting Company (NBC), Hou and Chao discussed various topics, including Taiwan's future, cross-strait relations, and Taiwan-U.S. ties.
Hou stated that Taiwan's future should be determined by its 23 million inhabitants, asserting, "Taiwan is an independent sovereign country." Amid escalating tensions across the Strait, Hou advocated preparedness without provocation to maintain deterrence.
Chao stressed that peace is the only option for cross-strait development, with strength as a necessary foundation. He emphasized the significance of U.S. support for Taiwan's defense measures.
Regarding Taiwan-U.S. ties, Hou highlighted the critical role the U.S. plays in Taiwan's self-defense efforts and expressed confidence in the deepening of this relationship.
Chao also discussed the broader impact of Taiwan's democracy, suggesting that it will inevitably influence mainland China by challenging the Chinese government to explain why democracy can't flourish in a place with shared heritage and culture across the Taiwan Strait.