Taiwan’s Pro-Independence Candidate Secures Victory, Vows to Defend Against Chinese Threats
Lai Ching-te, the pro-independence candidate from Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), declared on Saturday his victory in the election of the island's head of state, a Sputnik correspondent reported.
Taipei: Lai Ching-te, the pro-independence candidate from Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), declared on Saturday his victory in the election of the island’s head of state, a Sputnik correspondent reported.
“I want to thank the people of Taiwan for writing a new chapter of our democracy. We have shown the world how we value democracy,” Lai said in his address to the voters.
He also thanked his opponents, adding that he had spoken to them on the phone and accepted congratulations.
Meanwhile Taiwan’s newly elected head of state, Lai Ching-te, said on Saturday he was committed to protecting the island from alleged threats and intimidation from mainland China.
“We are determined to protect Taiwan from China’s continued threats and intimidation,” Lai said during a press conference.
He also announced his intention to maintain the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and use dialogue instead of confrontation “to confidently continue exchanges and cooperation with China.”
“If there is parity and dignity, Taiwan is keen to engage in dialogue and cooperation with China for the benefit of the peoples on both sides of the strait to create a peaceful and prosperous environment,” the politician added.
