Regarding the Chinese Mainland’s announcement that, from August 4th to 7th, it will conduct military exercises encircling Taiwan, threatening the security of the Republic of China (Taiwan) people, the KMT reiterates our long-standing position to defend the ROC, safeguard democracy and liberty, protect the safety of our people, and uphold regional peace. The KMT denounces any conduct that harms cross-Strait peace, regional stability, Taiwan’s security, and the lives and development of the 23 million people.
The KMT points out that the Republic of China (ROC) is a sovereign and independent nation. Receiving foreign visitors is well within our rights. Furthermore, Taiwan is a democratic and free society, so we’re even more welcoming of any democratic friend who shares these same values. The KMT emphasizes that Speaker Pelosi’s visit, according to both the Speaker herself and President Biden, does not represent any change in U.S. policy towards Taiwan. Thus, all parties should show restraint, refrain from over-interpretation, and avoid raising regional tension and hostility. Peace in the Taiwan Strait directly affects the well-being of the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and affects regional security and stability. All parties must cherish this peace together.
The KMT solemnly reminds the Chinese mainland authority: that the recent excessive reactions to Speaker Pelosi’s visit, including trade restrictions and military exercises, not only harm the well-being of the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait but also make the already worsening cross-Strait relationship under the Democratic Progressive Party government even worse. The Chinese mainland authority should review these actions thoroughly and immediately cease its current conduct of rashly harming the Taiwan people’s livelihood, cross-Strait relations, and regional peace.
The KMT’s objectives are the defense of Taiwan, the development of Taiwan, the democracy of Taiwan, and the peace of Taiwan. These objectives are not only the achievements of every KMT leader who has been in the Office of the President but are also the core missions of the party. Furthermore, the party’s position on cross-Strait relations continues to adhere to the party constitution and policy platform. By prioritizing the interests of Taiwan and ensuring regional peace, the KMT has not given up communication and dialogue with the other side of the Strait, and by conducting “principled engagement” in order to avoid miscalculation and reduce the risk of conflict: this is the foundation of preserving cross-Strait peace. Both sides of the Taiwan Strait should have dialogue and communication and should oppose antagonism and hostility. Bilateral dialogue can better serve the fortune of the people on both sides of the Strait.
On the recent increase in geopolitical risk, the KMT wants to pay a special tribute to all members of our Armed Forces who are protecting the Republic of China and defending our homeland, territorial air space and waters, and the safety of our people. We want to say to them: Thank you all for working so hard!
On the basis of protecting the safety of the Taiwanese people, safeguarding regional peace, and prioritizing the interests of Taiwan, the KMT will continue to support our Armed Forces and enhance ROC national security. Our resolute attitude will not be changed by any external pressure.
