Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has declared it “impossible” for the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to be considered Taiwan’s motherland, citing the island’s deeper political history. Lai, who took office in May, is labeled a separatist by Beijing and firmly rejects its sovereignty claims. He asserts that Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), has roots dating back to the 1911 revolution that ended the last imperial dynasty.
The Chinese nationalist government retreated to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war to Mao Zedong’s communist forces, which established the PRC. During a concert preceding Taiwan’s national day on October 10, Lai noted the PRC recently celebrated its 75th anniversary on October 1, while the ROC will mark its 113th birthday shortly.
“In terms of age, it is absolutely impossible for the People’s Republic of China to become the motherland of the Republic of China’s people,” Lai stated, prompting applause from the audience. He added, “On the contrary, the Republic of China may be the motherland of the people of the People’s Republic of China who are over 75 years old.”
Lai emphasized the significance of the upcoming celebrations, reminding attendees of Taiwan’s status as a “sovereign and independent country.”
The Chinese government, under President Xi Jinping, continues to assert its claim over Taiwan. In a recent speech, Xi reiterated that Taiwan is part of China’s territory.
Lai has previously challenged China’s historical claims, suggesting that if the PRC is concerned about territorial integrity, it should also reclaim lands ceded to Russia in the 19th century. Lai is set to deliver a keynote address on Taiwan’s national day on October 10.