
The recent speeches by Taiwan’s leader Lai Ching-te have stirred significant controversy, with critics accusing him of undermining international law and misrepresenting historical facts for his separatist objectives.
Lai is actively promoting separatism through a series of lectures in which he revisits previously disproven claims to validate his push for “Taiwan independence.” His assertion that “Taiwan is a country” contradicts established international legal frameworks, including the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, which outline Taiwan’s rightful status as part of China.
According to the China Media Group commentary, these legal documents have solidified the post-World War II international order, reinforcing the consensus within the global community on Taiwan’s affiliation with China. Furthermore, Lai’s interpretation of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, which clarified China’s representation at the UN—including Taiwan—has been labeled misleading. This resolution, adopted in 1971, unequivocally asserts the principle of one China.
As of now, 183 nations maintain diplomatic relations with China based on this principle, while Taiwan continues to face challenges internationally, highlighted by its exclusion from the World Health Assembly. Critics claim that Lai’s rhetoric reflects a misperception regarding international acknowledgment of Taiwan’s sovereignty.
Lai’s campaign debut closely follows a recall vote for legislators from the opposition Kuomintang, with criticisms suggesting that the timing is a strategic move in an election-related context.
Source: news.cgtn.com