Mainland spokesperson: Lai's speech disregards facts, reveals ulterior motives

A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Saturday slammed Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te's remarks on cross-Strait relations in a latest speech, saying they disregard the facts, mislead the public and reveal ulterior motives.

Zhang Han, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said Lai, in his speech, stubbornly clung to a separatist mindset of "Taiwan independence," exaggerated the "threat from the mainland," peddled the false narrative of "democracy versus authoritarianism," and sought to pursue "independence" through military means and reliance on external forces, thereby stoking cross-Strait antagonism and confrontation and undermining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

"There is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is part of China – this is the true status quo in the Taiwan Strait," Zhang said.

Stressing that the one-China principle is a basic norm of international relations and a prevailing consensus of the international community, as well as an important part of the post-World War II international order, Zhang said Taiwan's future can and must be decided by the entire Chinese people, including the people of Taiwan.

The spokesperson said the Chinese mainland will adhere to the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus, unite broadly with compatriots from all sectors in Taiwan, resolutely crack down on "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, oppose external interference, and safeguard peace and stability across the Strait.

Zhang also called for deepening cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation, promoting the peaceful and integrated development of cross-Strait relations, and advancing the great cause of national reunification and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.