Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te Rejects Beijing’s Claims, Highlights Taiwan’s Older Political Roots

Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te made a bold statement on Saturday, declaring it “impossible” for the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to claim Taiwan as its “motherland,” citing Taiwan’s older political history. Speaking ahead of Taiwan’s national day celebrations, Lai emphasized that Taiwan, officially called the Republic of China (ROC), has political roots dating back to 1911, predating the establishment of the PRC.

Lai, who assumed office in May, has been condemned by Beijing as a “separatist” for rejecting China’s claims of sovereignty over Taiwan. He reiterated that Taiwan is an independent country known as the ROC, a government that fled to the island in 1949 after losing the Chinese Civil War to Mao Zedong’s communists, who established the PRC.

During the event, Lai pointed out the historical distinction between the ROC and the PRC, noting that while the PRC celebrated its 75th anniversary on October 1, Taiwan will soon mark the 113th anniversary of the ROC on October 10.

“In terms of age, it is absolutely impossible for the People’s Republic of China to become the ‘motherland’ of the Republic of China’s people,” Lai said, drawing applause from the audience. “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.”

He also stressed the importance of Taiwan’s upcoming national day celebrations, stating, “We must remember that we are a sovereign and independent country.”

China’s Taiwan Affairs Office did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping, in a speech before China’s national day, reiterated Beijing’s stance that Taiwan remains a part of China.

Lai has previously challenged Beijing with historical references. In September, he said that if China’s claims to Taiwan were based on territorial integrity, then it should also seek the return of land ceded to Russia in the 19th century.

Lai’s remarks are likely to heighten tensions between Taiwan and China as both governments prepare for their respective national day celebrations.