Taiwan President Lai Ching-te vows to defend democracy and freedom

President Lai Ching-te has reaffirmed Taiwan's commitment to democracy and its refusal to accept subordination. Speaking during a national day address, Lai stated that while Taiwan cherishes peace, it will not renounce its freedom. He emphasized that strengthening national defenses is not a provocation but a necessity, noting that peace cannot rely solely on wishes.

Lai also challenged the international community to uphold the principle that might does not make right, questioning whether the world still believes that powerful nations should not deprive a people of their right to self-determination.

In response, Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office condemned the speech, accusing Lai of distorting the truth and harboring separatist intentions. The office maintained that there is only one China and that Taiwan is part of it, asserting that the future of Taiwan should be decided jointly by all Chinese people.