Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen Declares Taiwan a Sovereign Nation

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen [Photo: Reuters]

Tsai Ing-wen, the President of Taiwan, stated that "Taiwan is already a sovereign independent nation." Her remarks came as U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned the possibility of a call with her. Tsai reaffirmed her stance of rejecting China's claims of sovereignty while emphasizing the need to maintain the status quo across the Taiwan Strait.

According to Reuters on May 20, during a press conference marking her second anniversary in office, Tsai declared, "The Republic of China, Taiwan, is a sovereign independent nation." She asserted, "No country has the right to annex Taiwan," and added, "Taiwan's future cannot be determined by external forces." Tsai emphasized that the Taiwanese people pursue democracy and freedom, which should not be seen as a provocation.

On the same day, Trump indicated he would speak with Tsai. Direct communication between the leaders of the U.S. and Taiwan has been considered a sensitive issue in U.S.-China relations since the U.S. severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan in favor of recognizing China in 1979.

Tsai expressed her intent to convey to Trump that China is undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. She reiterated that Taiwan supports maintaining the status quo and that cross-strait dialogue should occur on the principles of equality and dignity.

The necessity of strengthening Taiwan's defense capabilities was also highlighted. Tsai noted that acquiring U.S. weapons is essential for maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan aims to continue its security cooperation with the U.S. amid increasing military pressure from China.

China responded strongly to Tsai's statements. The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council criticized her remarks as filled with falsehoods, deception, and hostility. They pointed out that Tsai's assertions of "sovereign independence" and "mutual non-subordination" reflect a narrative that China views as advocating for Taiwan's independence.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry also stated that it would not accept any attempts to support Taiwan's independence. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force. In contrast, the Taiwanese government rejects China's sovereignty claims and maintains that the future of Taiwan should be determined by its people.

The outcome of any potential call between Trump and Tsai could further escalate tensions in U.S.-China relations.

* This article has been translated by AI.

AJP