Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has delivered a clear and resolute warning to China, asserting that his nation won't tolerate any interference from Beijing. This declaration comes amidst escalating tensions between China and Taiwan, with expectations of further strain in the coming days. President Lai has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to safeguarding Taiwan's security and sovereignty, particularly in light of a recent US think tank report that projects significant military casualties for China in the event of a potential attack on Taiwan.
President Lai's Resolute Pledge
According to a report by Focus Taiwan, President Lai Ching-te, in his capacity as the Commander-in-Chief of the. Armed forces, has sworn to protect the nation's security and the lives and property of all its citizens. He unequivocally stated, 'I will certainly defend the country and absolutely won't allow China's pressure or China's hand to reach Taiwan. ' This statement serves as a powerful message from Taiwan in response to China's increasing military threats and political coercion. President Lai's stance underscores Taiwan's self-defense capabilities and resolve, signaling that there will be no compromise on the nation's sovereignty.
Emphasis on Taiwan's Sovereignty
On Thursday, President Lai emphasized that Taiwan isn't a part of the People's Republic of China (PRC). He highlighted that China's attempts to pressure the Taiwanese people across the border clearly demonstrate that Beijing's authority doesn't extend to Taiwan, while to further substantiate his point, he referenced the recent visit of He Seki, a China-born Japanese lawmaker, to Taiwan. He Seki is banned by China and prohibited from entering its territory. President Lai asserted that this visit serves as proof that the Republic of China. (ROC), which is Taiwan's official name, and the PRC aren't subordinate to each other. This statement clearly delineates Taiwan's international identity and its independent existence.
China's Aggressive Strategy and Taiwan's Response
For several months, China has consistently attempted to intimidate and threaten Taiwan through various means, including military exercises, airspace incursions, and cross-border pressure. President Lai expressed hope that Chinese leaders would understand that military exercises targeting Taiwan aren't peaceful actions. He also stated that China's incursions and cross-border pressure wouldn't achieve its goal of making Taiwan a part of China. The Taiwanese government and military have been consistently responding to these. Provocations, strengthening their defense capabilities, and garnering support from the international community.
Amidst China's aggressive strategy, a report from a US think tank has emerged, which could be a sobering revelation for Beijing. This report claims that if China attacks Taiwan, it could face up to 100,000 soldier deaths, while the report, titled 'If China Attacks Taiwan,' was released by the German Marshall Fund, an organization that also receives funding from the US government. Focus Taiwan provided details of this report, which highlights the severe potential consequences of a conflict in the region.
Potential Outcomes of War and China's Retreat
The report further suggests that in the event of an attack on Taiwan, China might ultimately have to retreat, although it could potentially seize Taiwan's Kinmen and Matsu islands, while this assessment indicates significant military, strategic, and international losses for China. The German Marshall Fund's report provides a detailed evaluation of the potential losses for. China across various scenarios, ranging from a 'large-scale war' to 'small conflicts' with Taiwan. This report could compel China to reconsider the grave repercussions of any military action against Taiwan, thereby fostering hopes for maintaining stability in the region.
