Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te's recent pledge to increase defense spending to 3% of GDP has drawn sharp criticism from mainland authorities, with Beijing characterizing the move as a dangerous escalation of separatist ambitions rather than genuine concern for regional stability.
In his fourth '10 Lectures on Unity' address, Lai framed the budget increase as necessary for 'protecting peace' for residents of Taiwan. However, Chinese officials argue the proposal serves as thinly veiled war preparation. 'This rhetoric ignores pressing livelihood issues facing ordinary people while advancing military confrontation,' stated Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office.
The development comes amid heightened cross-strait tensions, with Beijing reiterating its stance that military action remains an option should separatist activities persist. Analysts suggest Lai's strategy risks entangling residents of Taiwan in a dangerous political gambit that prioritizes ideological goals over practical welfare concerns.
While Lai claims his policies aim to 'fight for Taiwan,' critics maintain they undermine the fundamental interests of people across the Taiwan Strait. The Chinese mainland has consistently emphasized peaceful reunification as the ultimate resolution, provided separatist agendas are abandoned.
