Taipei, January 8: Taiwan’s President William Lai on Thursday condemned China’s latest sanctions targeting senior Taiwanese officials, asserting that Beijing has no jurisdiction over the island and highlighting the clear political divide between Taiwan and the People’s Republic of China.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau’s 62nd investigation training programme, Lai addressed China’s sanctions on Interior Minister Liu Shyh-fang, Education Minister Cheng Ying-yao, and Prosecutor Chen Shu-yi, whom Beijing labelled “Taiwan independence diehards” and “accomplices.”
Lai said that rather than causing concern, the sanctions instilled pride, noting that the targeted officials continue to serve the public fearlessly. He emphasized that Taiwan’s democracy remains resilient despite cross-border pressure, and cited the recent visit of China-born Japanese lawmaker Hei Seki—also sanctioned by Beijing—as evidence that Taiwan operates independently of China.
The President criticised China’s military exercises, political infiltration, and intimidation campaigns as destabilizing acts that will never coerce Taiwan into unification. As commander-in-chief, Lai pledged to defend the nation, protect citizens’ property, and uphold Taiwan’s sovereignty.
Lai called on lawmakers across all parties to expedite defence-related legislation and the central government budget, underscoring the urgency of safeguarding Taiwan’s democratic system amid ongoing tensions with Beijing. (ANI)
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