In a historic election, Taiwanese voters have chosen William Lai as their president, securing an unprecedented third consecutive term for the pro-sovereignty Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). This move, seen as a divergence from China, has angered Beijing, prompting statements asserting that “Taiwan is part of China.” The election was framed by China as a choice between “war and peace,” reflecting the longstanding tensions between the two entities.
Lai’s victory signals a clear trajectory for Taiwan away from China’s influence. In response to the election results, Beijing, while expressing the desire for “peaceful reunification,” did not rule out the use of force. Recent months have witnessed an increased military presence by China around the island, raising concerns of a potential conflict.
Lai’s Vision for Taiwan
William Lai, in his first remarks after opponents conceded, emphasized the irreversible path Taiwan is on, stating, “The country will continue to walk on the right path forward. We will not turn around or look backward.” He highlighted the triumph of democracy and called for more exchanges and dialogue with China. However, he affirmed his commitment to maintaining the cross-strait status quo, neither seeking independence nor unification with China, pledging to safeguard Taiwan from threats.
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Lai, previously labeled a “separatist” by Beijing, has promised to stick to Tsai Ing-wen’s policy of maintaining the status quo, avoiding open declarations of independence while rejecting China’s sovereignty claims. He expressed hopes for dialogue with China, but also pledged to strengthen Taiwan’s military defense. The election outcome has intensified the longstanding tensions between Taipei and Beijing.
US Congratulates Lai
The United States, Taiwan’s biggest ally, swiftly congratulated Lai on his win, emphasizing the island’s robust democratic system. Secretary of State Antony Blinken praised Taiwan’s democratic process and reiterated the US commitment to maintaining cross-strait peace and stability. President Joe Biden clarified that the US does not support independence for Taiwan, aligning with its longstanding policy.
China responded to the election results, stating that “reunification” with Taiwan is still “inevitable.” The DPP’s governance was deemed “incompatible” with cross-strait peace, reflecting China’s dissatisfaction with Taiwan’s pro-independence stance.
Simultaneous with the presidential election, Taiwan’s voters chose their legislature, resulting in a split parliament with no single majority. The DPP has lost its majority, and an opposition-dominated legislature with a DPP president could complicate governance in Taiwan. The geopolitical implications of Taiwan’s stance, China’s response, and the evolving US-China-Taiwan dynamics remain significant, influencing cross-strait relations in the coming years.