Impossible for China to claim Taiwan as its motherland, according to Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, who strongly opposes Beijing’s sovereignty assertions over the island.
In a speech made on October 5 ahead of Taiwan’s National Day celebrations, Lai emphasized Taiwan’s distinct and older political roots, drawing a clear line between the two governments. His remarks are the latest in a series of statements that reflect his commitment to safeguarding Taiwan’s sovereignty and counter Beijing’s claims.
Lai, who took office in May 2023, has been a vocal advocate of Taiwan’s independence, rejecting China’s long-standing assertion that Taiwan is part of its territory.
He argues that the island is a fully functioning country known as the Republic of China, with origins tracing back to the 1911 revolution, a significant historical milestone that overthrew China’s last imperial dynasty. According to Lai, this political heritage firmly establishes Taiwan’s identity, making it impossible for China to be Taiwan’s motherland.
Taiwan’s Political Roots: A Historical Perspective
President Lai Ching-te’s comments underscore Taiwan’s unique political history, which is distinct from the People’s Republic of China. The republican government, originally established in mainland China, fled to Taiwan in 1949 following its defeat in the Chinese Civil War by Mao Zedong’s communists.
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The communists went on to establish the People’s Republic of China (PRC), which continues to claim Taiwan as part of its “sacred territory.” However, Lai maintains that the Republic of China (ROC) and its government are separate entities from the PRC, and that Taiwan’s political roots predate the establishment of the PRC, making it impossible for China to lay legitimate claim to Taiwan.
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In his speech, Lai pointed out that the PRC celebrated its 75th anniversary on October 1, 2024, while the Republic of China will be celebrating its 113th birthday just a few days later on October 10. He used this historical context to question how the PRC, which is younger, could claim to be the motherland of the ROC.
“In terms of age, it is absolutely impossible for China to become the ‘motherland’ of the Republic of China’s people. On the contrary, the Republic of China may be the motherland of the people of the People’s Republic of China who are over 75 years old,” Lai remarked, much to the applause of his audience.
Lai’s argument is based on the idea that a nation with older political roots, like the ROC, cannot be subsumed under a younger regime like the PRC. This statement not only resonates with Taiwan’s nationalistic sentiments but also highlights Lai’s resolve to defend Taiwan’s sovereignty.
His rejection of the notion that China could become Taiwan’s motherland is part of a broader strategy to assert Taiwan’s independence and distinct identity on the global stage.
The Continued Sovereignty Dispute Between Taiwan and China
The statement from President Lai also touches on the broader geopolitical tensions between Taiwan and China. Beijing has consistently viewed Taiwan as part of its territory, even though the island has operated independently since the end of the Chinese Civil War in 1949.
China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, which handles cross-strait relations, did not respond to inquiries about Lai’s comments. However, Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated his stance that Taiwan belongs to China in a speech on the eve of the PRC’s national day, underscoring the continued friction between the two governments.
It is impossible for China to unilaterally assert control over Taiwan, according to Lai, who believes that Taiwan’s future must be decided by its own people. While Beijing continues to ramp up pressure on Taiwan, including through military maneuvers and diplomatic isolation, Taiwan’s leadership remains firm in its resolve.
Lai’s statements are a reflection of his administration’s efforts to safeguard Taiwan’s sovereignty and maintain its independence, especially in the face of increasing Chinese aggression.
Lai’s historical reference to the ROC’s foundation in 1911 is significant in that it emphasizes Taiwan’s longstanding claim to sovereignty. The ROC government, which once ruled mainland China, retreated to Taiwan in 1949 and has governed the island ever since.
Despite the PRC’s claim that Taiwan is a breakaway province, the island functions as an independent country, with its own government, economy, and military. This continued separation, and Taiwan’s refusal to be brought under Beijing’s control, fuels the ongoing dispute between the two entities.
Historical and Political Arguments Reinforce Lai’s Position
In his speech, President Lai also made another historical argument that pokes at Beijing’s claims to Taiwan. In September 2024, he stated that if China were truly concerned with reclaiming all its territories, it should focus on recovering land ceded to Russia in the 19th century under the Qing dynasty, rather than focusing on Taiwan.
By drawing attention to this issue, Lai is effectively challenging the legitimacy of China’s claims, furthering his argument that it is impossible for China to claim Taiwan as part of its territory.
Lai’s comments reflect a broader strategy of emphasizing Taiwan’s independence and historical distinction from mainland China. As China continues to assert its territorial claims, Taiwan’s leadership has consistently pushed back, with Lai at the forefront of this resistance.
His comments not only resonate with Taiwan’s citizens but also send a clear message to the international community that Taiwan will not be bullied into submission.
It is impossible for China to disregard the growing sense of national identity among the people of Taiwan. Many Taiwanese citizens do not see themselves as part of China and reject the idea of reunification under Beijing’s rule.
Taiwan’s vibrant democracy and robust economy stand in stark contrast to China’s authoritarian regime, further solidifying the island’s distinct identity. Lai’s speech on October 5 is a continuation of this narrative, reinforcing the idea that Taiwan’s future lies in the hands of its own people, not under the control of the PRC.
Lai’s presidency has been marked by his unwavering stance on Taiwan’s sovereignty and his rejection of China’s claims. As Taiwan prepares for its national day celebrations on October 10, Lai’s keynote address is expected to further solidify his administration’s position on this issue.
His statements leading up to this event serve as a reminder that it is impossible for China to become Taiwan’s motherland, as the island has its own unique history and identity that cannot be erased.
President Lai Ching-te’s declaration that it is impossible for China to become Taiwan’s motherland emphasizes the island’s distinct political history and identity. His statements, delivered just days before Taiwan’s national day, reflect his commitment to defending Taiwan’s sovereignty in the face of continued pressure from Beijing.
Lai’s historical and political arguments underscore the impossibility of China’s claim over Taiwan, as the Republic of China predates the establishment of the People’s Republic of China and continues to function as an independent country.
As tensions between Taiwan and China persist, Lai’s leadership is defined by his dedication to ensuring Taiwan’s independence. It is impossible for China to force Taiwan into submission, and Lai’s administration remains resolute in upholding the island’s sovereignty. The speech serves as a powerful reminder of Taiwan’s unique history and its determination to remain free from Chinese control.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏