Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council. Photo: people.com.cn

In the face of the US' tariff bullying and extreme economic pressure, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities on the island of Taiwan had long since raised the white flag and fallen to their knees. The so-called "negotiations" with Washington are nothing more than political theater, which will only embolden the US to press even further, Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said at a press briefing on Wednesday.

He made the remarks in response to questions about the recent sharp appreciation of the new Taiwan dollar, which public opinion on the island suggests may be linked to the ongoing tariff talks with the US. There is speculation that Washington is pushing for a "Plaza Accord"-style arrangement that would force the NT dollar to appreciate in order to narrow the US trade deficit with the island.

The media question further noted that this development, following the US decision to impose steep tariffs on goods from the island, has been seen as yet another blow to the island's export-reliant industries. Sectors such as machinery, chemicals, and textiles - already grappling with mounting pressure - could face even greater challenges as a result.

Chen said that Lai Ching-te's call for the people of Taiwan to "treat suffering as nourishment" merely masks a submissive strategy of appeasement - one centered on massive purchases and investments aimed at pleasing the US. It is, in essence, a case of selling out Taiwan island to curry favor with Washington.

"In the face of common risks and challenges, Chinese people on both sides of the Taiwan Straits should stand together to safeguard our right to development and uphold our national dignity. We remain deeply concerned about the difficulties facing industries and businesses on the island, and we welcome those willing to invest and grow on the mainland," Chen said.

Global Times