Taiwan’s Stand for Freedom: President Lai Visits Kinmen Island

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te affirmed Taiwan’s commitment to its democratic way of life and resistance to Chinese Communist rule during a visit to Kinmen Island. Lai marked the 66th anniversary of a key battle in the Taiwan Strait crisis, emphasizing peaceful development and military strengthening in face of increasing threats from Beijing.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te reaffirmed Taiwan's commitment to a democratic and free way of life, rejecting any notion of being governed by China's Communist Party. Speaking at Kinmen Island, Lai commemorated a key battle from the Taiwan Strait crisis, stressing peace and defending sovereignty in the face of rising threats from Beijing.

Lai's trip, his first since assuming office, included a wreath-laying at a memorial for the 66th anniversary of the second Taiwan Strait crisis. Addressing veterans, Lai drew on personal connections to the battle and asserted Taiwan's intent to strengthen military capabilities in response to Chinese aggression.

KMT's Jessica Chen echoed the call for peace, post a meeting with China's Taiwan Affairs Office. Despite Kinmen's proximity to Chinese-controlled territory, Taiwan remembers the 1958 crisis as a symbol of resilience. Today, the island serves as a vivid reminder of Taiwan's ongoing struggle for sovereignty.

(With inputs from agencies.)