Taiwan President Lai Ching-te has delivered a stark warning to military cadets, emphasizing the threat of China’s ambitions to annex the island. Speaking at the Whampoa Military Academy’s 100th anniversary, Lai highlighted the challenge posed by China’s rising power, which he believes seeks to dismantle the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.
Lai declared that China views the ‘annexation and elimination’ of Taiwan as its ‘great rejuvenating cause’, echoing a sentiment previously articulated by high-ranking Chinese officials. He urged cadets to recognize the threat and avoid defeatism, asserting that Taiwan’s future should be determined solely by its own people.
Lai’s remarks come amidst heightened tensions between Taiwan and China. Since taking office last month, Lai has been subjected to personal attacks from Beijing, which considers Taiwan a breakaway province. China has conducted military drills near Taiwan in response to Lai’s perceived pro-independence stance.
Despite the escalating rhetoric, Lai has consistently offered dialogue with Beijing, but his proposals have been rebuffed. This situation highlights the precarious state of relations between the two sides, where any perceived shift towards formal independence by Taiwan could trigger Chinese military action.
While Taiwan’s government maintains that the island is already an independent country, the Republic of China, China insists that any attempt to declare independence will be met with force. Lai’s latest address underscores the growing tension over the future of Taiwan and the potential for conflict in the region.
