Taiwan President Lai Ching-te recently visited the Kinmen island between Taiwan and China, emphasizing Taiwan’s rejection of being ruled by China’s Communist Party. Lai commemorated a key battle between Chinese and Taiwanese forces that marked the start of the second Taiwan Strait crisis. He expressed Taiwan’s commitment to maintaining its free and democratic way of life despite ongoing military maneuvers by China.
Lai also highlighted Taiwan’s peaceful intentions while emphasizing the need to resist threats from China and defend the country’s sovereignty. Taiwan’s defense ministry reported Chinese military aircraft operating around the Taiwan Strait, prompting Taiwan to monitor the situation closely. The Taiwanese government plans to increase defense spending next year to enhance its military capabilities in response to China’s growing threat.
China considers Taiwan to be a part of its territory and has criticized Lai as a separatist. Lai, however, believes that Taiwan’s future should be determined by its people and has expressed willingness to engage in talks with China. Kinmen, located close to Chinese-controlled territory, has a history of conflict between Taiwanese and Chinese forces, with the 1958 crisis being the last major battle.
Despite the complex relationship between Taiwan and China, efforts are being made to maintain peace and stability in the region. Members of Taiwan’s opposition party have also stressed the importance of peaceful relations between the two sides. Kinmen, once a battleground, is now a tourist destination with a significant military presence from Taiwan to ensure its security.
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