China’s refusal to talk to Taiwan’s government is part of a «deliberate campaign» to undermine the island’s democracy, President Tsai Ing-wen has warned, c
TAIPEI — China’s refusal to talk to Taiwan’s government is part of a “deliberate campaign” to undermine the island’s democracy, President Tsai Ing-wen has warned, capping a week of escalating rhetoric between the two sides.
Tensions between Taiwan and China have risen since Tsai came to power in 2016, as she has refused to acknowledge that the self-ruled island is part of “one China.”
Beijing has unilaterally cut off communication with her government and stepped up military drills around the island as well as poached several of its dwindling number of official allies.
In a landmark speech on Wednesday, President Xi Jinping described Taiwan’s unification with the mainland as “inevitable,” adding Beijing is willing to discuss political as well as “peaceful unification” issues with political parties and groups in Taiwan that recognise the “one China” principle.
He also reiterated China’s willingness to use force if necessary, especially if Taiwan ever declares full independence.
