China has no right to represent Taiwan, but the island is willing to work with Beijing to combat global challenges such as climate change, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said on Thursday, striking both a firm and a conciliatory tone.
Lai, who took office in May after being elected in January, is detested by China, which calls him a "separatist."
Giving a keynote national address outside the presidential office in Taipei, Lai reiterated that the Republic of China — the island's formal name — and the People's Republic of China are "not subordinate to each other."
The People's Republic of China has no right to represent Taiwan," he said.
"I will also uphold the commitment to resist annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty," Lai said.
Persons:
Lai Ching, Lai
Locations:
Pengjia, Taiwan, China, Beijing, Taipei, Republic of China, People's Republic of China, Taiwan Strait