Author: Yimou Lee and Ben Blanchard

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te emphasized the island’s willingness to collaborate with Beijing on global challenges like climate change, despite China’s claim that Taiwan is part of its territory. Lai, who has been labeled a “separatist” by China, reiterated Taiwan’s commitment to sovereignty and democracy. In a national address, Lai asserted that Taiwan and China are not subordinate to each other, and China has no right to represent the island. He affirmed Taiwan’s determination to defend its sovereignty, maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait, and engage in equal talks with China. Lai’s stance underscores Taiwan’s firm stance on sovereignty and its…