TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — Taiwan's Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao addressed concerns regarding China's aggressive military stance towards the self-ruled island during a recent press conference. She emphasized that Taiwan does not seek conflict with China, expressing a desire for communication based on mutual respect and equality. "We do not seek conflict. We will not provoke confrontation," Hsiao stated, echoing the Taiwanese government’s commitment to preventing escalation with Beijing.
Hsiao, who has been serving alongside President Lai Ching-te since their electoral victory in 2024, highlighted the increasing efforts of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to undermine Taiwan’s society through infiltration and division tactics. The Taiwanese leadership views these activities as a significant threat, noting a "dramatic uptick" in provocative actions by China.
China has long claimed Taiwan as its territory, denouncing any moves towards Taiwan's independence as unacceptable. The CCP has threatened to forcibly annex the island and has stepped up military intimidation, conducting frequent incursions that involve sending jets and naval vessels near Taiwanese waters. Hsiao noted that communication with Chinese officials has been hindered, as China refuses to engage with her or President Lai, labeling them as "diehard Taiwan independence separatists." The situation has escalated to the extent that China has threatened severe repercussions, including the death penalty for perceived separatists.
In an incident indicative of the current tensions, Czech intelligence officials reported a purported plan by Chinese diplomats to stage a car crash during Hsiao’s prospective visit to the country in 2024. While no such incident occurred, one Chinese official was reported to have run a red light while allegedly following Hsiao's vehicle, further illustrating the confrontational tactics employed by Beijing.
Despite enduring pressure and intimidation, Hsiao declared her resolve to continue advocating for Taiwan's voice on the international stage. "I will not let that intimidate me or stop me from voicing my views, or from voicing the views of the people of Taiwan," she asserted. Furthermore, she acknowledged ongoing apprehensions regarding U.S. intelligence assessments suggesting a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan before 2027. In response, the Taiwanese government is focused on taking proactive measures to prevent such a conflict.
"Everything we are doing right now is to prevent such a conflict from happening — not just in 2027, but ever," she remarked, underscoring Taiwan's commitment to bolstering its defenses. Hsiao indicated that Taiwan is making urgent investments in self-defense capabilities to deter any attempts at destabilizing peace in the Taiwan Strait. She emphasized the strategic importance of these investments, aiming to mitigate miscalculations that could lead to further conflict.
As tensions continue to rise, Taiwan remains steadfast in its approach to facing the challenges posed by China's military maneuvers. The government's focus on maintaining peace and stability, alongside enhancing its defensive readiness, signifies a critical moment in cross-strait relations.
