TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC, 大陸委員會) claimed on Monday (Oct. 7) that the root of cross-strait tensions lies in China's suppression and expansionist ambitions. The government agency argued that Beijing's ongoing political, military, and economic coercion threatens peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the broader region.
Media reported that a recent poll showed public sentiment on President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) handling of cross-strait relations remains divided. In repsonse to the reports, the MAC responded that mainstream public opinion in Taiwan supports President Lai's policies on cross-strait relations and his commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and the constitutional system of freedom and democracy.
a spokesperson further cited a recent poll showing that 75.1% of the public supports the president's emphasis on maintaining the status quo with the "Neither humble nor arrogant, maintaining the status quo" (不卑不亢，維持現狀) principal.
Also, 85.2% of respondents agree with the president's stance that Taiwan's 23 million people should determine its future. In comparison, 85.7% recognize the reality of the Republic of China's (ROC, 中華民國) existence and advocate dialogue over confrontation.
However, the MAC remarked that it respects diverse domestic opinions on cross-strait issues and will continue to monitor public sentiment as a reference for policy-making.
It urged Beijing to adjust its rigid ideology and hostile actions toward Taiwan, advocating for communication with Taiwan's democratically elected government. The council aims to establish a solid foundation for lasting peace and stability across the strait by fostering mutual goodwill.