Since taking office as the leader of the Taiwan region earlier this year, Lai Ching-te has repeatedly emphasized democracy at public events. In his inaugural speech on May 20, Lai praised Taiwan as \"a global beacon\" of democracy and highlighted its connection to the world through peace and prosperity.
On October 4, during a meeting with a transatlantic delegation from the Washington, D.C.-based think tank German Marshall Fund, Lai reiterated these themes. He accused the Chinese mainland of continuing to \"intimidate\" and \"threaten\" Taiwan both politically and militarily. Lai proposed \"united efforts\" with the United States, the European Union, and other democracies to uphold a \"democratic umbrella\" against what he described as authoritarian expansionism from the mainland.
Observers note that the Taiwan authorities' emphasis on democracy, framed in opposition to the mainland, may heighten tensions across the Taiwan Strait. Critics argue that such rhetoric under the guise of promoting democracy could escalate misunderstandings and undermine regional stability.
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities' approach has been interpreted by some analysts as an attempt to push forward a separatist agenda. By positioning the situation as a dichotomy between democracy and authoritarianism, they may be seeking to garner international support, particularly from Western democracies.
When the mainland has responded to these moves, the Taiwan authorities have described these responses as increasing threats to Taiwan's security. This cycle of actions and reactions risks escalating tensions further, potentially impacting the security and well-being of people on both sides of the strait.
Experts suggest that open dialogue and mutual respect are essential for reducing tensions and fostering peace in the region. A focus on cooperation rather than confrontation could benefit all parties involved, promoting stability and prosperity.
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Taiwan authorities' platitudes on democracy are doomed to backfire
cgtn.com
