Taiwan's President Proposes Enhanced Measures Against Chinese Influence

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te has announced a call for stronger measures to address increasing efforts of infiltration and espionage attributed to China. During a recent press briefing, following discussions with top security officials, Lai accused Beijing of attempting to undermine Taiwan's independence through various tactics.

The Taiwanese government has consistently accused China of exerting pressure to compel the island to accept Beijing's sovereignty claims. In recent years, there has been a notable escalation in Chinese military activities near the Taiwan Strait, alongside trade sanctions and campaigns aimed at influencing Taiwanese society.

Lai emphasized that these actions are part of a broader strategy by China to 'absorb' Taiwan, warning that the country's hard-won freedoms and democratic values are at risk of being eroded through manipulation and intimidation. He noted that many citizens are increasingly concerned about the potential loss of their independence and the integrity of their national defense.

In response, President Lai proposed enhancing legal frameworks to better detect and prevent Chinese efforts to undermine Taiwan's sovereignty. He cited a significant increase in espionage cases, with 64 individuals charged in the past year for spying on behalf of China--three times the number recorded in 2021. Many of those charged were current or former military personnel.

To strengthen Taiwan's security, Lai mentioned potential measures that include stricter scrutiny of applications from Chinese citizens wishing to visit or settle in Taiwan, the revival of military courts, and controlling the flow of money, technology, and individuals across the Taiwan Strait.

Additionally, Lai addressed concerns regarding Chinese influence on Taiwanese celebrities, many of whom have faced backlash for expressing pro-Beijing sentiments. The government plans to remind artists performing in China to be cautious about their public statements and actions, particularly in light of a recent incident involving a Taiwanese citizen married to a Chinese national who made controversial comments favoring Beijing.

The Taiwanese government maintains that it has no option but to adopt more proactive measures in light of these challenges. In response to Lai's remarks, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated Beijing's stance, asserting that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China and that attempts to assert independence will not alter the reality of reunification.