A spokesperson for the Chinese mainland on Tuesday labeled Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te’s proposal for cross-Straits dialogue on ‘equal terms’ as a ‘hypocritical gesture’ rooted in separatist intentions.
‘Only by recognizing the fact that both sides of the Taiwan Straits belong to one China can cross-Straits dialogue and consultation have a basis to resume,’ said Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, responding to Lai’s recent statements.
Chen accused Lai of repeating a separatist stance and seeking support from external forces. ‘Lai has hyped the so-called “mainland threat,” incited cross-Straits confrontation, and pushed for economic decoupling measures,’ he added.
The spokesperson emphasized that cross-Straits relations can improve only if separatist provocations cease. ‘Enhanced exchanges and cooperation are the keys to easing tension across the Straits,’ Chen said.
He reaffirmed that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China and that no actions by Lai can hinder the historical trend toward national reunification.
‘We are committed to upholding the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus,’ Chen stated. ‘On this basis, we are willing to engage with all political parties, groups, and individuals in Taiwan to discuss political issues and advance the process of national reunification.’
