TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The head of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC, 陸委會) on Monday (Oct. 14) accused Beijing of posing a significant threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, stating China ignored Taiwan's goodwill and pressured the island, undermining regional security.
Minister Chiu Chui-cheng's (邱垂正) remarks came amid concerns over China's "Joint Sword-2024B" (聯合利劍B) military exercise targeting Taiwan launched earlier that day. He added that the government and military remain vigilant and prepared to defend the nation.
Chiu emphasized the international and domestic approval of President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) recent Double Tenth National Day speech. He urged Beijing to take the speech seriously, highlighting Lai's call for shared responsibility in maintaining regional peace.
Local media reports suggest that China might regularize its military exercises in response to Lai's speech. Chiu reiterated the importance of Beijing acknowledging Taiwan's reality and respecting its people's democratic values and lifestyle. He urged the Chinese government to heed Lai's message about working collaboratively for regional stability.
Chiu reassured citizens that the government was fully aware of the military drills and committed to national defense. He encouraged the public to remain confident in Taiwan's resilience and readiness.