Beijing’s position on Taiwan’s autonomy sparks anger in Taiwan

Taiwan has criticized Beijing for referring to last Saturday’s election as a Chinese “domestic affair,” rejecting the term as “fallacious” and not in line with international understanding.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged Beijing to respect the election results and abandon its oppressive actions against Taiwan, emphasizing the importance of positive cross-strait interactions and maintaining peace, stability, and prosperity.

Taiwan also expressed gratitude to the US, Japan, Australia, and EU nations for their congratulations. Additionally, Taiwan rebuked Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi for belittling its sovereignty and democratic system, asserting that Taiwan is a sovereign and independent country separate from the People’s Republic of China. China’s policy is to seek peaceful reunification with Taiwan but warned against any attempts at formal independence.

Beijing has alleged that the US is promoting separatist movements in Taiwan, despite publicly opposing the island’s potential independence.

President Joe Biden has departed from the long-standing American policy of ‘strategic ambiguity’ on Taiwan by openly committing to its defense against Beijing. Following the Chinese Civil War, nationalist forces relocated to Taiwan with the support of the US, leading to its continued autonomy. However, the majority of countries, including the US, acknowledge Beijing as the sole representative of the Chinese people.