Taiwan's firm reaction after the Chinese military exercises and Xi Jinping's promise of reunification with China
Lai Ching-te, President of Taiwan. Credit line: Handout / AFP / Profimedia
“My position has always been clear: to firmly defend national sovereignty,” said Taiwan's president, Lai Ching-te, on Thursday.
Also, the leader of Taiwan declared, in a televised speech, that his position is to strengthen national defense and the resilience of the entire society, to implement effective deterrence capabilities and to build solid democratic defense mechanisms, according to AFP, quoted by News.ro.
President Lai promised to “build a more secure and resilient Taiwan”. “In the face of China's escalating expansionist ambitions, the international community is carefully watching whether the Taiwanese people have the determination to defend themselves,” he continued.
International support for Taiwan “has never weakened”, Lai said. “Not only are we indispensable, but we are also a reliable and responsible force in the service of good in the international community,” he added.
His message comes after the Chinese military conducted simulated blockades and attacks against maritime targets around the island this week.
Also, in his New Year's message, Chinese President Xi Jinping promised the reunification of China and Taiwan.
China claims Taiwan, an autonomous island, as part of its territory and has long vowed to annex it, using force if necessary.
