《TAIPEI TIMES》Dialogue welcome, but do not distort history: Lai

A CH-47 helicopter and a UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter flew over Taipei, with the former carrying a giant Republic of China flag during yesterday's National Day celebrations. Photo: Ann Wang, Reuters

Reported by a reporter from Central News Agency

Taiwan welcomes the efforts of the United States and China to reduce the risk of war through dialogue, but must respect the historical record of World War II and the right of the Taiwanese people to exist, President William Lai Ching-te (Lai Ching-te) said in his National Day speech yesterday.

Faced with China's continued "grey zone" pressure, Taiwan has increased its defense budget and improved society's overall defense capabilities by combining government and private capabilities, Lai said.

These efforts are not provocative but ensure dialogue can take place on the basis of "dignity and equality," he said.

"We welcome dialogue between the United States and China to manage competition and reduce the risk of conflict and war," he said. "But we must also point out that maintaining regional security, peace and stability requires a correct understanding of how history develops."

"Distortion of the history of World War II must not be allowed. The right of the Taiwanese people to exist must be respected," Lai said. "We are open to communication, but we do not accept subordination."

Taiwan is "going further step by step and continuing to promote diplomacy," he said, citing his May visit to Eswatini, Taiwan's only ally in Africa, despite China's attempts to block the trip. China has pressured three African countries to deny charter flights access to their airspace, leading to delays in initial visits.

He also cited Vice President Hsiao's visit to Palau - another Taiwan ally - in June as an example, and her speech at the European Conference on Freedom and Democracy in Vilaente, Italy, last month.

Taiwan has cooperated with international partners in the fields of medical care, agriculture, energy, technology, education and sustainable development to meet each other's needs and improve people's lives through these efforts, Lai said.

"'Taiwan can help' is not just a slogan. It is a commitment - we are willing to share our capabilities and take responsibility," he added.

News source: Taipei Times

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