'Stop threatening Taiwan', its new president William Lai tells China

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Taiwan's recently inaugurated president, William Lai, has issued a direct appeal to China, urging an end to its persistent threats against the island and a recognition of its democratic system. His call for dialogue in place of confrontation came swiftly after taking office on Monday.

Asserting Taiwan's unwavering stance against Chinese intimidation, Lai emphasized that the island would not yield to pressure from Beijing, which has persistently asserted its claim over Taiwan. Regarded by China as a "secessionist," Lai faces significant animosity from Beijing, which has intensified its efforts to coerce Taiwan in recent years.

China's aggressive military maneuvers near Taiwan, including frequent incursions into its waters and airspace, have fueled concerns of potential conflict. Lai highlighted these actions as the "foremost strategic challenge to global peace and stability" in his inaugural address.

Despite his more assertive tone, Lai largely adhered to the diplomatic approach established by his predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen. Tsai's tenure was characterized by cautious engagement with Beijing. Lai, a former physician turned politician, clinched victory in January's presidential election, securing an unprecedented third term for his Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Previously serving as Tsai's vice-president and premier, Lai was known for his past advocacy for Taiwanese independence, a stance that has drawn Beijing's ire.

China has refrained from issuing an official response to Lai's inauguration. However, the Chinese embassy in the UK voiced opposition, urging the UK government not to endorse the event. Earlier, a spokesperson from China's Taiwan Affairs Office cautioned Lai to carefully consider whether to pursue peaceful relations or confrontation with Beijing.

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On Monday, President Lai struck a notably conciliatory tone, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining the status quo—a nuanced diplomatic stance that does not formally recognize Taiwan as a sovereign nation despite its constitution and independent governance. China staunchly upholds this position and accuses key allies of Taiwan, such as the US, of undermining this delicate understanding by bolstering support for the island.

While advocating for peace and stability, President Lai expressed a desire to reopen cross-strait exchanges, including welcoming Chinese tourist groups to Taiwan. However, he cautioned against underestimating the threat posed by China, stressing the imperative for Taiwan to enhance its defensive capabilities.

This approach mirrors the policy of Lai's predecessor, President Tsai, who believed that fortifying Taiwan's defenses and securing support from key allies like the US and Japan were vital for deterring Chinese aggression. Critics, however, argue that such military investments could escalate tensions and leave Taiwan more vulnerable to provocation from Beijing.

f missile ships to patrol the Taiwan Strait. Additionally, Taiwan celebrated a milestone in its military program with the completion of its first domestically developed submarine last September.

Observers, including Taiwan's allies, closely monitor President Lai's rhetoric for signs of escalating tensions. His measured approach is also aimed at reassuring the United States, particularly given the background of his vice-president, Hsiao Bi-Khim, who is perceived as a protege of President Tsai and has extensive experience representing Taiwan in the US.

However, President Lai faces significant domestic challenges, including addressing unemployment, the rising cost of living, and economic reliance on the semiconductor industry, which supplies over half of the world's chips. Furthermore, a fractured parliament, where the DPP lacks a majority, poses obstacles to his agenda, as highlighted by recent brawls among lawmakers over proposed reforms.

The pivotal question of how President Lai will navigate relations with Beijing looms large, especially considering the absence of formal communication between the two sides since 2016. Lawyer Hsu Chih-ming, who attended the inauguration, emphasized the importance of maintaining open channels of communication with China while cautioning against actions that could exacerbate cross-strait tensions and potentially escalate into conflict.
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