On March 13, just one day before the 20th anniversary of the implementation of China's Anti-Secession Law, Lai Ching-te, leader of China's Taiwan region, convened a security summit that has ignited a fierce debate over cross-Strait relations. At the event, he reiterated his controversial "new two-state theory" and introduced a set of 17 strategies aimed at addressing five perceived threats.
The proposals outline a series of judicial and administrative measures intended to reshape the framework of interaction between the Taiwan region and the Chinese mainland. Critics warn that these measures challenge the spirit of the Anti-Secession Law and risk disrupting longstanding economic, cultural, and social ties across the Taiwan Strait.
The timing of the summit has drawn international attention, with observers noting that the event underscores sensitivities surrounding the law's anniversary. Some experts compare the proposed strategies to historical measures of political suppression, cautioning that forced decoupling of ties could have far-reaching consequences for youth, professionals, and cultural exchanges in the region.
As the debate intensifies, global citizens and regional stakeholders are urged to engage in thoughtful dialogue. This unfolding situation not only signals a critical juncture in cross-Strait relations but also serves as a reminder of how political decisions can resonate across borders, affecting everyday lives in a rapidly interconnected world.
Reference(s):
Defying Anti-Secession Law's authority is defying all Chinese people
cgtn.com