On October 8, Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, addressed reporters’ questions regarding recent comments made by Lai Ching-te at an event in Taipei.
One journalist inquired about Lai’s assertion that the People’s Republic of China could never be the “motherland” for the people of the Republic of China based on age demographics, suggesting instead that those over 75 in the People’s Republic of China might view the Republic of China as their motherland. Lai also warned against using the term “motherland” to wish the People’s Republic of China a happy birthday. This viewpoint has stirred significant controversy and criticism within Taiwan. What is your response to these comments?
Zhu Fenglian criticized Lai’s remarks, accusing him of distorting concepts and muddling right from wrong by emphasizing political differences across the Strait and purposely severing historical ties. She claimed that Lai perpetuates a “new two-state theory,” which denies the relationship of superiority between the Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China, thereby constraining the national and ethnic identity of the Taiwanese people. Zhu characterized Lai’s stance as a reiterated argument for Taiwan independence, highlighting his unwavering position on the “unification or independence” issue and his intent to intensify confrontation.
She stressed that Taiwan is an integral part of China’s territory, backed by clear historical context and legal facts. Zhu pointed out that on October 25, 1945, the Chinese government proclaimed the restoration of sovereignty over Taiwan. This was followed by the establishment of the Central People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China on October 1, 1949, which replaced the Republic of China government as the sole legitimate government of all of China. She clarified that this transition involved a change in government while the international legal subject remained unchanged, affirming that China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity—including Taiwan—has remained intact.
Zhu further reiterated that even though cross-strait reunification has not been fully realized, China’s sovereignty and territory have never been fragmented and cannot be divided. She maintained that the fact both the mainland and Taiwan belong to one China is a constant reality. Regardless of the historical paradoxes or contradictory narratives presented by Lai, she asserted they cannot change the objective truth that both sides of the Strait are part of one China. Zhu urged the Taiwanese people to see through Lai’s push for independence and to resolutely oppose both Taiwan independence and foreign interference. She called for the protection of their shared homeland and the maintenance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, which she deemed essential for their own security and well-being.
