TAIPEI (TVBS News) — In a sharp rebuke on Wednesday (May 29), a spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO), Zhu Fenglian, criticized Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's inaugural speech, labeling it a "Taiwan independence manifesto" that severely harms the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait.
Zhu's comments underscore the escalating tensions between Taiwan and mainland China, highlighting the deepening divide over Taiwan's sovereignty and the principle of "one China."
A Stern Warning
Zhu Fenglian issued a stern warning against President Lai's remarks, stating that mainland China "will not tolerate, will not indulge, must counteract, must punish" any actions perceived as promoting Taiwan's independence.
She emphasized the severe consequences Taiwan would face if it continued down the path of independence, indicating a potential escalation in cross-strait relations.
During a press conference, Zhu described Lai's comments as a provocation against the one-China principle and a significant threat to the stability of the Taiwan Strait.
Unwavering Stance on Unification
Zhu further asserted that mainland China's resolve to solve the Taiwan issue and achieve national unification is as "firm as a rock."
She reassured that no matter how the situation in Taiwan changes, it will not alter the fact that both sides of the strait belong to one China.
Zhu reiterated mainland China's commitment to the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus, vowing to promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and steadfastly advance the cause of national unification.
Her remarks signal a hardline stance from mainland China in response to Taiwan's presidential inauguration, setting the stage for a continued standoff over Taiwan's political status and the broader implications for regional stability.