The escalating rhetoric from the Taiwan authorities under Lai Ching-te is stirring the waters of the Taiwan Strait, threatening the delicate balance of peace and stability in the region. Cloaked in the language of democracy, their actions mask a push towards the illegal separatist agenda of \\"Taiwan independence,\\" heightening tensions and endangering the well-being of residents on both sides.
Since taking office as the leader of the Taiwan region earlier this year, Lai Ching-te has consistently positioned Taiwan as a \\"global beacon\\" of democracy. In his inaugural address on May 20, he emphasized the island's connection to the world through peace and prosperity. However, critics argue that this democratic facade is being used to garner international sympathy and support for a separatist movement.
In a recent meeting on October 4 with a transatlantic delegation from the German Marshall Fund, Lai doubled down on his rhetoric. He accused the Chinese mainland of continued political and military \\"intimidation\\" and \\"threats\\" towards Taiwan. Lai called for \\"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.
This narrative of \\"democracy versus authoritarianism\\" serves as a political tool for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities. By framing the issue in these terms, they seek to advance their own interests and push forward the separatist agenda of \\"Taiwan independence.\\" Such actions disregard the legal and historical context of the Taiwan question and undermine efforts towards peaceful reunification.
When the Chinese mainland responds to these provocative actions with appropriate countermeasures, the Taiwan authorities intensify their pursuit of external support. Aligning with foreign forces, notably the United States, the European Union, and Japan, they aim to balance what they perceive as the \\"China threat.\\" This approach neglects their own aggressive and unlawful moves, shifting blame onto the mainland.
The consequences of this strategy are far-reaching. It threatens regional stability, disrupts economic ties, and endangers the security of people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. The Taiwan authorities' manipulation of democratic ideals for separatist objectives is a dangerous path that risks backfiring, escalating tensions further.
A commitment to genuine dialogue and adherence to the one-China principle is essential for maintaining peace and stability in the region. It is crucial for the Taiwan authorities to recognize the implications of their actions and refrain from provocative measures that could lead to unintended consequences.
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Taiwan authorities' platitudes on democracy are doomed to backfire
cgtn.com
