Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office

When asked to comment on the content of Taiwan regional leader Lai Ching-te's so-called "Double Ten" speech regarding cross-strait relations, Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said on Friday that in his speech, Lai stubbornly adhered to the "Taiwan independence" stance, hyped up the so-called "mainland threat," and pushed the narrative of "democracy versus authoritarianism." 

Lai also distorted the history of World War II and UNGA Resolution 2758, vainly attempting to "seek independence through force," "rely on foreign powers for independence," and expand armaments and prepare for confrontation, Chen said in a statement.

Lai's words and deeds will only undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits, escalate tensions, add burden on the residents of Taiwan, and jeopardize the island's economic lifeline and development prospects — ultimately bringing disaster to Taiwan society, the spokesperson said.

There is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is part of China — this is the true status quo across the Taiwan Straits. Only by upholding the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus can peace and stability across the Straits be genuinely ensured, allowing Taiwan compatriots to live well and Taiwan's economy to gain greater space and certainty through cross-Straits cooperation and integrated development, Chen noted.

Conversely, deviating from the one-China principle, denying the 1992 Consensus and pushing separatist schemes for "Taiwan independence" will only bring tension and turmoil to the situation in the Taiwan Straits, gravely harming Taiwan island's economy and the vital interests of residents, said Chen. 

The fact that Taiwan is part of China is clear, and its status is unequivocal. The historical trend toward China's reunification is unstoppable. No matter what Lai says or does, he cannot change the historical and legal facts that Taiwan is part of China, nor can he alter the global consensus recognizing Taiwan as part of China. He cannot halt the inevitable historical process of China's complete reunification, said Chen. 

The spokesperson noted that ensuring a better life for people on both sides of the Straits remains the starting point and ultimate goal of our cross-Straits policies. Only by adhering to the one-China principle, opposing "Taiwan independence," promoting peaceful development of cross-Straits relations, and working together toward national reunification can we safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits, advance the well-being of compatriots, and foster harmony and prosperity in Taiwan, Chen said.

"We will unite our Taiwan compatriots, firmly oppose 'Taiwan independence' secessionist activities and external interference, firmly protect the common home of the Chinese nation, and work together to create a bright future of national reunification and national rejuvenation," the spokesperson said.

Global Times