Author: Guardian staff and agencies in Taipei

In a recent statement, Taiwan’s president, Lai Ching-te, emphasized that it is impossible for the People’s Republic of China to become Taiwan’s motherland due to Taiwan’s older political roots. Lai rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims, asserting that Taiwan is a country called the Republic of China with origins dating back to the 1911 revolution. Following a civil war in 1949, the Chinese nationalist government fled to Taiwan, while Mao Zedong established the People’s Republic of China. Despite ongoing claims from China, Lai maintains Taiwan’s independent identity, citing significant historical milestones like Taiwan’s upcoming 113th birthday. Speaking at a pre-celebration concert for…