Taiwan's President Faces Chinese Backlash Ahead of Key Speech

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te is criticized by China for his pro-independence stance, escalating tensions as he prepares for a major speech. Beijing views Lai as a separatist and may respond with military drills. Despite offering talks, Lai stands firm that Taiwan's future is decided by its people.

In a move that has further strained cross-strait relations, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te faces backlash from China ahead of his highly anticipated keynote speech. Beijing, which sees Lai as a staunch separatist, has criticized his recent statements dismissing the idea of the People's Republic of China as Taiwan's rightful motherland.

Lai's stance, which reiterates that Taiwan and China are distinct entities, has prompted China's Taiwan Affairs Office to accuse him of fostering hostility and confrontation. The tension comes as Taiwan prepares to commemorate its National Day, an occasion that has historically flared tempers between the two sides.

With China likely to conduct military drills near Taiwan following Lai's speech, the Taiwanese president remains firm on his independence rhetoric, emphasizing that only the people of Taiwan have the right to determine their future. Meanwhile, despite Beijing's chilly response, Lai continues to extend an olive branch for dialogue.

(With inputs from agencies.)