In a stern rebuke of Taiwan’s New Year address, China’s State Council Taiwan Affairs Office has characterized Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te’s remarks as fundamentally separatist rhetoric destined for failure. Spokesperson Chen Binhua issued the official response on Thursday, following Lai’s speech that emphasized strengthening Taiwan’s defensive capabilities against what he termed China’s expansionist ambitions.
Chen systematically dismantled the address, accusing Lai of propagating falsehoods and malicious narratives while repackaging traditional Taiwan independence ideology. The spokesperson asserted that Lai’s confrontational approach reveals an entrenched separatist mentality, labeling him a ‘saboteur of peace,’ ‘creator of crisis,’ and ‘inciter of war’ through his provocative statements.
The criticism extended beyond rhetorical concerns to practical governance issues. Chen condemned Lai’s administration for allegedly disregarding Taiwanese public opinion, escalating cross-strait tensions, and misallocating public resources toward independence-oriented military preparations. The spokesperson further accused the Taiwan authorities of suppressing democratic freedoms while pursuing policies that compromise the interests of Taiwanese citizens and businesses through excessive alignment with external powers.
Reaffirming China’s longstanding position, Chen emphasized that regardless of actions taken by Lai and the Democratic Progressive Party, Taiwan remains an inseparable part of Chinese territory. The spokesperson declared China’s national rejuvenation irreversible and expressed confidence in achieving complete reunification.
The statement concluded with an appeal to Taiwanese compatriots to recognize the dangers of separatist agendas, align with historical progress, and collaborate with mainland counterparts to maintain cross-strait stability. Chen urged joint efforts toward peaceful development of cross-strait relations and the eventual realization of national rejuvenation and reunification.