TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) stated on Sunday (Sept. 2) that Beijing’s motivation for annexing Taiwan is not about territorial integrity, suggesting that if it were, China should focus on reclaiming land ceded to Russia in the 19th century.

In an interview on the Era TV program “The View with Catherine Chang,” hosted by Catherine Chang (張雅琴), Lai argued that China’s motive for invading Taiwan is not about “territorial integrity,” but rather about altering the “rules-based world order” to achieve hegemony. Lai reiterated the principles of the “Four Commitments” and the “Four-Pillar Plan” for peace, emphasizing international support for Taiwan and framing the Taiwan Strait issue as “not only a matter between Taiwan and China but also an issue for the Indo-Pacific and even the entire world.”

Lai stressed that unity is the most crucial thing for Taiwan right now. He asserted that only by standing together against Chinese aggression can Taiwan secure its future.

He noted that the August 23rd Artillery Battle occurred before he was born and before the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) was established, illustrating that China’s aggression against Taiwan is not about any particular individual’s or party’s actions or statements. He emphasized that no political party can stop China’s aggression simply by what they say or do.

Lai asserted that the Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China are not affiliated with each other. He stated that the Republic of China has taken root in Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu, where democracy and freedom have flourished.

More importantly, Lai highlighted that democratic Taiwan has spread its values globally. He argued that the people of Taiwan desire a democratic and free way of life, which should not be seen by China as a challenge.

Lai reiterated his belief that China’s intention to annex Taiwan is not truly about territorial integrity: “Otherwise, why not reclaim the land ceded to Russia in the Treaty of Aigun during the Qing Dynasty?” He argued that China’s real objective is to alter the “rules-based international order” to achieve hegemony in the international arena or the Western Pacific.

Lai noted that amid its war with Ukraine, “Now is the time when Russia is at its weakest, and China could demand back the lands ceded in the Treaty of Aigun during the Qing Dynasty, but they haven’t.” He added, “This clearly shows that the intention to invade Taiwan is not about territorial concerns.”

Lai pointed out that if China only wanted to take Taiwan, there would be no need to expand its military presence in the East and South China Seas or to conduct joint military exercises with Russia. He expressed his hope that opposition parties “can see this clearly.”

Lai emphasized that Taiwan hopes for peaceful cross-strait development and that the government has a responsibility to ensure peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. However, he stressed that the methods must be appropriate and carried out with dignity.

He detailed the recent expressions of support for Taiwan from the international community, including Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, US President Joe Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, European Union countries, and the recently concluded G7 summit. He noted that all these entities have expressed the view that “maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is indispensable for international security and prosperity.”

Lai said this underscores his overall diplomatic strategy: “The Taiwan Strait issue is an international issue, and we must stand with the democratic camp.” He cited examples such as the establishment of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), the AUKUS partnership among Australia, the UK, and the US, the Five Eyes Alliance, and the US-Japan-Philippines trilateral summit to highlight the growing unity within the democratic camp.

“Therefore, we must show our determination to protect our country,” the president emphasized.

Regarding rumors of a visit to the US, Lai responded directly, saying, “There are no current plans to visit,” considering the surrounding circumstances and geopolitical considerations. Addressing reports like the one in the Financial Times suggesting that the US is concerned about his lack of diplomatic experience and has other doubts, he calmly stated that the report was not true, which is why the US government clarified it immediately.

Lai also emphasized that during former President Tsai Ing-wen’s (蔡英文) eight years in office, there was a strong communication channel and mutual trust between Taiwan and the US. He noted that since taking office, this bridge has continued, thanks in part to Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim’s (蕭美琴) assistance. Lai added that the US is well aware of Taiwan’s government policies and the direction of the country’s development.

In response to praise from former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, who lauded Lai for speaking truthfully and showing courage and determination to protect the people of Taiwan, Lai acknowledged that this foundation was laid during former President Tsai’s eight years in office. “Her praise for me is also praise for President Tsai and the collective efforts of all the people,” Lai said.

Despite Taiwan’s difficult situation, the people of Taiwan have taken the baton, working hard and persevering—“success is never achieved overnight,” Lai remarked.