China’s Foreign Ministry issued a warning against Taiwan independence on the day of the self-ruled island’s presidential inauguration. The ministry emphasized that pushing for Taiwan independence was bound to fail, regardless of the excuses or names used. President Lai Ching-te stated in his inaugural speech that China and Taiwan are not subordinate to each other, calling on Beijing to halt its military threats and intimidation. Lai pledged to continue enhancing stability with China while strengthening Taiwan’s security through military equipment imports from close ally the U.S.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry criticized the U.S. for distorting UN General Assembly Resolution 2857, which supports Beijing’s seat at the UN. According to Wang Wenbin, this action challenges China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as international justice and the post-war international order. This distortion was described as absurd and dangerous. Despite the resolution solely addressing China’s representation at the UN, a group of U.S. senators sent a letter to WHO Director Tedros advocating for Taiwan’s participation in the upcoming World Health Assembly.
China’s stance on reunification was emphasized as the “trend of the times,” with Wang warning that those who align with it will prosper while those who oppose it will perish. China has escalated its military pressure and diplomatic isolation of Taiwan by frequently sending fighter jets and navy vessels near the island. Meanwhile, the Philippines accused Chinese fishermen of causing significant damage to giant clams and coral reefs in a disputed area of the South China Sea. Surveillance photos presented by the Philippine Coast Guard showed Chinese fishermen harvesting large numbers of giant clams at the Scarborough Shoal over several years.
Maritime conflicts in the South China Sea have heightened tensions between Beijing and Manila, with the Philippines alleging that the Chinese Coast Guard used water cannons against its vessels on a supply mission near a contested shoal. This incident further exacerbates the ongoing disputes in the region. The Chinese Foreign Ministry called on the Philippines to reflect on its actions in response to the accusations made against Chinese fishermen. The situation highlights the complex and contentious nature of territorial disputes and diplomatic relations in the South China Sea.
