TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Following the conclusion of China’s military exercises around Taiwan, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Sunday (May 26) called on Beijing to act responsibly to ensure regional stability. 

Lai again extended an invitation to Chinese leaders for talks aimed at “mutual understanding and reconciliation.” Speaking at an event in Tainan, Lai asked China to accept its responsibility to maintain peace across the Taiwan strait, reported AFP.

In a message on social media, Lai said that countries which seek to disrupt the region’s stability will not be accepted by the international community. The president also thanked the U.S. for its commitment to supporting peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. 

On Saturday (May 25), as the Chinese military exercises were winding down, the Biden administration cautioned Beijing about its provocative behavior towards Taiwan, per The Hill.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said the U.S. was “deeply concerned” about the military drills around Taiwan and cautioned China to “act with restraint.” Miller’s statement also emphasized the U.S. commitment to its longstanding Taiwan policy, governed by the Taiwan Relations Act, the Three Joint Communiques, and the Six Assurances. 

In Lai’s message, he expressed hope that the people of Taiwan will remain united in the face of challenges to continue making advances while strengthening and protecting the country’s hard-won democracy. 

Lai said he hopes to enhance exchanges with China for the mutual benefit of both sides and to “move towards peace and common prosperity.”