Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, Saturday, January 13, 2024.
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Taiwan President Lai Ching-te warned that China’s “growing authoritarianism” would not be limited to Taiwan and would pose a challenge “on a global level”.
Raichi was speaking at the annual Ketagalan Forum, which focuses on security issues in the Indo-Pacific region. it Several representatives attended the meeting Countries include the United States, India, Japan, Australia and Canada.
“We are all fully aware that China’s growing authoritarianism will not stop at Taiwan, nor will Taiwan be the only target of China’s economic pressure,” Lai said, Adding that this authoritarianism is becoming “more aggressive”.
“This is now a challenge at a global level,” Lai stressed, calling on countries to cooperate and contain China’s efforts.
His comments come as China ramps up its military activities in the South China Sea.
“China intends to change the rules-based international order. That is why democracies must unite and take concrete actions,” Taiwan’s president said.
last weekend, China’s Ministry of Transport says it will conduct maritime patrol and law enforcement operations The purpose of the Taiwan Strait is to “enhance traffic management and emergency rescue capabilities.”
In May this year, after Lai Chi was sworn in, the Chinese military conducted a two-day exercise around Taiwan as “punishment” for Taiwan’s “separatist behavior.”
Tensions between China and the Philippines in the Spratly Islands have also been escalating for months. Recently, ships from the two countries collided near the disputed Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea.
After the ship collision, Beijing’s actions drew condemnation from Philippine allies and the United States reaffirmed its mutual defense pact with the Philippines.
“Such actions are aimed at intimidating China’s neighbors and undermining regional peace and stability,” Lai said.
China denies the results of Taiwan’s January election that brought Lai Chi to power, saying the ruling Democratic Progressive Party does not represent mainstream people.
Beijing insists the self-ruled island of Taiwan is part of its territory.
China’s Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to CNBC’s request for comment.
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