Taiwan's Lai Calls for Democratic Unity Against Chinese Threats

At a recent conference in Taipei organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te emphasized the need for democracies to unite against the growing threat of authoritarianism, particularly from China. Lai's remarks come amid heightened tensions following his inauguration in May, during which China has intensified military drills around Taiwan, asserting its claim over the self-governed island. He stated, “China’s threat to any country is a threat to the whole world,” highlighting the global implications of Beijing's aggressive stance. The conference faced challenges as Chinese diplomats reportedly pressured lawmakers from at least six countries to withdraw their participation. IPAC, which has been a target of Chinese sanctions and cyberattacks, welcomed new members from six additional countries, including two from Taiwan, marking a significant step in the island's international engagement. In response, Beijing reiterated its opposition to any official exchanges between countries and Taiwan, reflecting its ongoing efforts to isolate the island diplomatically. In the backdrop of these developments, the U.S. has continued to support Taiwan's military capabilities, recently approving a $360 million arms sale that includes missiles and drones. This support comes amid mixed signals from U.S. political figures, including Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, who suggested Taiwan should bear more financial responsibility for its defense while avoiding a clear commitment to military intervention. Lai has committed to enhancing Taiwan's security through military imports and strengthening partnerships with regional allies, including the U.S., Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines, while striving to maintain stability in cross-strait relations.