Latest President Lai Ching-te News | Top President Lai Ching-te News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking President Lai Ching-te News Today | English President Lai Ching-te News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Czech Intel Exposes Beijing’s Car Crash Plot Against Taiwan’s VP-Elect

June 28, 2025, 1:08 pm

Czech military intelligence uncovered a threatening Chinese plan against Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Bi-Khim. On her March 2024 trip to Prague, her first foreign visit since the election win with President Lai Ching-te, Chinese agents had schemed to orchestrate a car accident to terrorize her.

The plot, which was coordinated from the Chinese embassy in Prague, never advanced beyond the planning stage, but the Czech government described it as “unprecedented.” Taiwan has criticised the act and appreciated the speed of Prague’s response. The incident reveals China’s increasing transnational repression operations and efforts to isolate Taiwan.

As a Taiwanese parliamentarian, I condemn in the strongest possible terms the egregious conduct of the Chinese diplomat in Prague who tailed, surveilled, and even attempted to ram the vehicle carrying then Vice President–elect Hsiao Bi-khim.

Hiding behind diplomatic immunity to…

— 🇹🇼陳冠廷 Kuan-Ting Chen (@kuantingvision) June 26, 2025

Chinese Agents Tracked Taiwan’s VP in Prague

Chinese agents tied to Beijing’s embassy in the Czech capital, Prague, conducted active surveillance of Hsiao Bi-Khim while she was visiting, Czech Radio reports. They monitored her itinerary and attempted to record meetings with senior Czech political and public personalities.

The surveillance became risky after a Chinese diplomat allegedly ran a red light in downtown Prague in order to keep tailing operations going. This negligent act unveiled the wider scheme.

Planned ‘Demonstrative Kinetic Action

Petr Bartovský, head of Czech Military Intelligence, characterized the scheme as a “demonstrative kinetic action.” The agents planned to cause a car crash with Hsiao’s motorcade as a warning. The plan did not proceed to implementation.

Czech security personnel remained vigilant during the visit and stood prepared to act if there was a need. Although they determined there was no immediate danger to Hsiao, the intended intimidation attempt created alarm in Prague’s security community.

Taiwan Criticizes, Applauds Czech Reaction

Taiwan’s Presidential Office criticized the scheme and expressed gratitude to Czech authorities for their surveillance. Spokesperson Karen Kuo affirm that Taiwan’s security agencies were already on high alert.

Representative Kuang-ting Chen criticized Beijing’s breach of international law, saying in an X statement that using diplomatic immunity as a cover to meddle in another nation’s sovereignty is not acceptable. He termed the event an obvious case of authoritarian abuse of authority.

China’s Pattern of Pressure on Taiwan

China has attempted to diplomatically isolate Taiwan for a long time. In 2022, it suspended trade with Lithuania following the approval by the Baltic nation of Taiwan’s establishment of a representative office bearing the name “Taiwan.”

Beijing reasons that formal interactions with Taipei contravene its “One China” policy. Taiwan, however, is a de facto sovereign state with its own government, army, and foreign relations.

Dangerous Diplomatic Escalation in Europe

The Czech Republic has officially raised the matter with Beijing. Although details were withheld by the foreign ministry, the diplomatic contact on the matter was confirmed. This case represents a troubling new level of China’s coercive diplomatic behavior in Europe.

It also establishes a dangerous precedent that should send a chill down the spine of Taiwan’s future diplomacy if not addressed. By unveiling this conspiracy, Czech officials have delivered a strong message to Beijing: intimidation will not muzzle democratic coalitions.

Taiwan Coast Guard Holds Military Drill to Counter China’s Grey Zone Tactics

June 8, 2025, 1:01 pm

Taiwan coast guard performed a combined military exercise on Sunday in Kaohsiung to improve its response to China’s growing grey zone threats. The Taipei government blames Beijing for pressure efforts such as undersea cable cutting and illegal sand dredging. They aim to destabilize Taiwan without triggering open war.

President Lai Ching-te coordinated the exercise, which practiced an at-sea hostage rescue. Taiwan insists that only its people will determine their future and rejects China’s claim of sovereignty.

Simulated Hostage Crisis Exercises Readiness

The coast guard and army simulated the hijacking of a ferry by “international terrorists.” Coast guard officers boarded the ship with backup from an interior ministry rescue helicopter and an army medevac helicopter.

The three helicopters coordinated together for the first time in such an exercise. The exercise concluded with the successful evacuation of casualties, highlighting Taiwan’s increased emphasis on combined emergency responses.

Coast Guard Faces Frontline Pressure

President Lai Ching-te commended the coast guard’s efforts in dealing with daily grey zone incursions by China. These involve cutting communication cables and sending Chinese vessels for sand dredging.

Lai Ching-te stated, “Our coast guard colleagues have always stood on the front line to uphold the law and safeguard the lives and safety of the people of Taiwan. The senior US envoy in Kaohsiung, Neil Gibson, observed the drill, highlighting foreign focus on Taiwan’s defense stance.

Upgrading to Face More Threats

Taiwan’s coast guard is adding to its fleet and capabilities. Its new Anping-class corvettes, employed in the drill, are derived from the navy’s Tuo Chiang-class stealth warships. The ships are small, maneuverable, and combat-equipped for coastal defense.

Each vessel is capable of carrying Taiwan-produced Hsiung Feng anti-ship and sea-to-land missiles. They are also equipped with search and rescue gear. During war, the coast guard will function as Taiwan’s auxiliary force.

Defying Beijing

Taiwan persists in refusing to recognize China’s claims to its territory. President Lai reaffirmed the island’s democratic values and right of self-determination. He pledged to “consolidate the strength of all departments and strengthen the resilience of the entire society” in order to safeguard Taiwan’s freedom.

China Has ‘No Authority’ Over Choosing Taiwan’s Status as a Country, Says FM

May 22, 2025, 12:26 pm

Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung categorically asserted that China cannot decide whether Taiwan is a nation or not. He asserted the right of Taiwan to democratically choose its government. Lin indicated being ready to sit down with China’s foreign minister as an act of friendship, ignoring the tense atmosphere prevailing at present.

China considers Taiwan as its own and claims the island as a province. It has also raised military and political pressure, such as regular war games around Taiwan. Beijing argues Taiwan has no status to be referred to as a state. Taiwan’s government denies these assertions vehemently. President Lai Ching-te and his government have continuously extended an olive branch of talks in order to de-escalate tensions, but China has declined all advances and deemed Lai a “separatist.”

Willingness to Engage Despite Differences

In response to meeting China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Lin stated he would extend his hand in friendship. He went on to say that the nature of cross-strait relations can be debated, but extending a hand first demonstrates humanity. Lin further admitted that if Wang did take his hand back, it would be his right, indicating openness in spite of political differences.

Taiwan’s legal name is still the Republic of China. It is a name traced back to 1949 when the government retreated to the island following defeat in a civil war with Mao Zedong’s communists, who established the People’s Republic of China on the mainland.

Sovereignty is Taiwan’s Own Decision

Lin emphasized that neither Wang Yi nor Beijing can determine Taiwan’s status. The world acknowledges Taiwan as a nation. Taiwan elects its government democratically. Lin emphasized that Taiwan’s identity and name are its own affairs.

The possibility of Lin and Wang meeting is still low. Taiwan and China don’t officially acknowledge each other. Their officials steer clear of visits, and Taiwan isn’t part of most world organizations because of China’s political sway.

Current Tensions and Pleas for Peace

Recently, President Lai renewed his peace offer but warned Taiwan must strengthen its defenses. China dismissed Lai’s remarks as a “two-faced tactic” and said talks were “doomed to fail.” Meanwhile, Taiwan expects Beijing to mark the anniversary of Lai’s presidency with further military drills.

Taiwan asserts its democratic rights and sovereignty. It demands dialogue but is ready for mounting pressures from China. The future of the island lies in upholding peace while holding firm on self-governance.

China Doubles Warships Near Taiwan Amid Rising Tensions Over US Visits

December 8, 2024, 12:28 pm

Taiwan’s defense ministry reported on Sunday that China had nearly doubled the number of its warships operating near the island within a 24-hour period, signaling heightened tensions ahead of potential new military drills. The increase in Chinese warships, from eight to fourteen, follows Taiwan President Lai Ching-te’s recent visits to Hawaii and Guam as part of a Pacific tour. Beijing, which views Taiwan as part of its territory, has expressed strong discontent with these visits, seeing them as moves toward Taiwanese independence.

Taiwan’s defense ministry also reported the detection of four Chinese balloons flying over the Taiwan Strait, one of which brushed the island’s top. The increased Chinese military presence comes after two rounds of war games held around Taiwan earlier this year.

While weather conditions in the region have been poor over the weekend, security sources anticipate a new round of Chinese military exercises in the near future. China’s Ministry of State Security issued a harsh statement, accusing Lai of seeking independence through military means and aligning with the United States, which Beijing opposes. It reiterated China’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity and warned that no nation, organization, or individual should underestimate China’s resolve.

The Taiwanese government, led by Lai, rejects China’s claims of sovereignty over Taiwan, continuing to assert its independence and defy Beijing’s demands.

China Sends Stern Warning To US Over Taiwan Independence Ahead Of Lai’s Pacific Tour

November 30, 2024, 4:03 pm

Ahead of Taiwan’s President pacific visit China’s military has issued a stern warning on Thursday, vowing to counter any attempts at Taiwanese secessionism as Lai Ching-te visit includes stopovers in Hawaii and Guam. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has consistently rebuffed Lai’s overtures for talks, labeling him a “separatist.”

As Lai prepares to depart for his overseas visit, Beijing has warned the US not to send signals supporting Taiwan’s independence. China’s Ministry of Defense spokesperson, Wu Qian, emphasized that the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is committed to safeguarding China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, declaring it would “resolutely defeat all secessionist attempts” in Taiwan and prevent foreign interference. Wu also reiterated that the PLA would counter any threats from forces seeking Taiwan independence.

Taiwan, which operates as a democratically governed entity, has repeatedly offered dialogue with Beijing, but the Chinese government has rejected those proposals. In response to increasing military pressure from China, Taiwan’s defense ministry reported ongoing military activities, including joint combat readiness patrols conducted by Chinese warplanes and warships near the island. Taiwan observed 19 Chinese aircraft in the vicinity, including J-16 fighters, prompting Taiwan’s Air Force to conduct its own defense drills.

On Thursday, Taiwan’s air force conducted a regular quarterly exercise, testing air defense systems and improving response tactics. The drill was aimed at enhancing Taiwan’s defense capabilities considering the growing military tensions in the region.

Lai’s overseas trip, his first since assuming office in May, includes official visits to the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau three of the 12 countries maintaining formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Taiwan’s Central News Agency reported that Lai will also meet with the overseas Taiwanese community and hold discussions with US think tanks during his two-night stopover in Hawaii.

Tensions have remained high throughout the year, with China conducting military exercises near Taiwan and regularly sending aircraft and warships into the island’s airspace and waters. Taiwan has also voiced concerns over Chinese surveillance balloons flying near the island, a practice Taiwan claims is meant to intimidate and provoke.

Taiwan’s presidential office condemned China’s actions, stating that using Lai’s trip as an excuse for military drills would be a “blatant provocation” and a destabilizing move in the region. Similarly, Beijing maintains that these stopovers violate the “one-China principle” and accused the US of fostering Taiwan’s independence ambitions.

“China Can Use Its Influence To Help End The War In Ukraine And Conflicts In The Middle East”: Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-Te

October 11, 2024, 5:52 am

In his National Day address on Thursday, President Lai Ching-te reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait while expressing the nation’s willingness to collaborate with China on global issues, as reported by Taiwan News.

Emphasizing the importance of dialogue based on equality and dignity, President Lai highlighted Taiwan’s dedication to enhancing resilience through the Four Pillars of Peace action plan.

“Under the Four Pillars of Peace action plan,” he stated during the event marking the 113th National Day of the Republic of China, “we will bolster national defense and protect the well-being of the Taiwanese.”

Must Read: MALABAR 2024: India And Japan Bolster Defence Ties As Indian Navy Chief Meets Japan Self Defence Force Chief

To tackle global challenges such as climate change and authoritarian expansion, three new committees have been established: the National Climate Change Committee, the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee, and the Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee.

“These three committees are interconnected and closely related to national resilience,” Lai remarked. The goal is to create better responses to challenges and foster closer cooperation with the international community.

“Taiwan is also continuing to diversify green energy sources and develop energy technologies to achieve the global goal of net zero by 2050,” he added.

Addressing cross-strait relations, he affirmed that “Taiwan is determined to uphold peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait,” emphasizing that “Taipei’s commitments to dialogue in the Taiwan Strait based on equality and dignity are unchanged.”

“The nation is also ready to collaborate with China to address global issues and ensure regional security for the benefit of people on both sides of the strait,” he said.

Additionally, Lai urged China to contribute to regional and global peace and security, leveraging its influence to help resolve conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

“China can use its influence to help end the war in Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East,” he remarked. “Amid these turbulent times, Taiwan will remain confident and resilient and be a force for peace and prosperity in the region.”

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this year’s National Day celebration attracted approximately 183 distinguished foreign guests, including 14 official delegations and 91 representatives of diplomatic missions in Taiwan from both allied and non-allied countries.

On the same day, China launched satellites from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center, with the flight path over central Taiwan heading toward the Western Pacific.

At 10:50 p.m. (UTC+8), China launched satellites from #XSLC, with the flight path over central Taiwan and heading toward the Western Pacific. The altitude is beyond the atmosphere and poses no threat. #ROCArmedForces monitored the process and stand ready to respond if needed.

— 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, ROC(Taiwan) ?? (@MoNDefense) October 10, 2024

The Taiwan Ministry of Defence shared a post on X, stating, “At 10:50 p.m. (UTC+8), China launched satellites from #XSLC, with the flight path over central Taiwan and heading toward the Western Pacific. The altitude is beyond the atmosphere and poses no threat. #ROCArmedForces monitored the process and stand ready to respond if needed.”

Also Read: Trump Faces Backlash After Insulting Detroit During Campaign

Taiwan President Stands Firm: “We Are a Sovereign Nation, Not China”

October 6, 2024, 2:28 pm

Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has declared it “impossible” for the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to be considered Taiwan’s motherland, citing the island’s deeper political history. Lai, who took office in May, is labeled a separatist by Beijing and firmly rejects its sovereignty claims. He asserts that Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), has roots dating back to the 1911 revolution that ended the last imperial dynasty.

The Chinese nationalist government retreated to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war to Mao Zedong’s communist forces, which established the PRC. During a concert preceding Taiwan’s national day on October 10, Lai noted the PRC recently celebrated its 75th anniversary on October 1, while the ROC will mark its 113th birthday shortly.

“In terms of age, it is absolutely impossible for the People’s Republic of China to become the motherland of the Republic of China’s people,” Lai stated, prompting applause from the audience. He added, “On the contrary, the Republic of China may be the motherland of the people of the People’s Republic of China who are over 75 years old.”

Lai emphasized the significance of the upcoming celebrations, reminding attendees of Taiwan’s status as a “sovereign and independent country.”

The Chinese government, under President Xi Jinping, continues to assert its claim over Taiwan. In a recent speech, Xi reiterated that Taiwan is part of China’s territory.

Lai has previously challenged China’s historical claims, suggesting that if the PRC is concerned about territorial integrity, it should also reclaim lands ceded to Russia in the 19th century. Lai is set to deliver a keynote address on Taiwan’s national day on October 10.

Taiwan’s President Dares China: Reclaim Russian Land Before Targeting Taiwan

September 2, 2024, 11:00 am

Historical Context and Taiwan’s Position

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te has called into question China’s territorial integrity claims over Taiwan, suggesting that if China were truly concerned about reclaiming lost territory, it would also seek the return of land ceded to Russia in the 19th century. Lai made these remarks during an interview with Taiwanese media, aired on Sunday night.

China, which views Taiwan as part of its territory, has never ruled out the use of force to bring the democratically governed island under its control. However, Taiwan’s government firmly rejects these claims, asserting that only the island’s people have the right to determine their future.

Treaty of Aigun and Russia’s Far East

In the interview, Lai referenced the 1858 Treaty of Aigun, where China’s Qing dynasty, then in decline, ceded a large portion of territory in what is now Russia’s far east. Although the treaty was initially unratified, it was confirmed two years later through the Convention of Peking—one of several so-called “unequal treaties” that China was forced to sign during the 19th century.

Lai pointedly questioned China’s selective approach to reclaiming territory. “If it is truly about territorial integrity, why doesn’t China demand the return of lands occupied by Russia under the Treaty of Aigun? Especially now, when Russia is at its weakest?” he asked, adding that China’s inaction on this front indicates its intentions toward Taiwan are not genuinely rooted in territorial concerns.

Taiwan and China’s Geopolitical Ambitions

Lai argued that China’s real objective is not merely to annex Taiwan, but to disrupt the current rules-based international order. “China’s designs on Taiwan are part of a broader goal to achieve hegemony in the Western Pacific and reshape international norms,” Lai said.

The Treaty of Aigun was just one of many concessions China was forced to make during the Qing dynasty’s decline. In another “unequal” treaty, the Qing ceded Taiwan to Japan in 1895. After World War II, Taiwan was handed over to the Republic of China, which retreated to the island following its defeat by Mao Zedong’s communists in the Chinese Civil War.

China’s Response and Taiwan’s Future

As of now, China’s Taiwan Affairs Office has not responded to Lai’s comments. Beijing maintains that Taiwan has been an integral part of Chinese territory since ancient times.

Lai’s statements underscore the deep historical complexities and ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China, as well as the broader geopolitical implications of the dispute in the Western Pacific.

Taiwanese Parliament Approves Controversial Bills Expanding Legislative Oversight

May 29, 2024, 9:22 am

Taiwan’s opposition-controlled parliament has approved legal amendments to enhance lawmakers’ oversight of the government under President Lai Ching-te, who took office on May 20, as reported by Voice of America. Despite extensive protests since May 17, which drew hundreds of thousands of demonstrators, the China-friendly Kuomintang (KMT) and the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) used their majority to pass the bills on Tuesday. These bills now await the president’s signature to become law.

Supporters, including KMT legislative caucus convenor Fu Kun-chi, argue that the amendments will strengthen checks and balances and enable the legislature to fight corruption more effectively. “Now that Taiwan’s legislature has passed the bills, lawmakers will uncover all corrupt officials and all kinds of malpractices in the future,” remarked Fu, who also announced plans to form a “special investigation team” to probe corruption cases, according to Voice of America.

As the amendments were voted on, thousands of protesters voiced their opposition, brandishing a giant white ball with the phrase “rejecting Chinese political interference.” Critics accuse the opposition of bypassing democratic norms by rushing the legislative process without sufficient inter-party negotiation. “There is a democratic negotiation mechanism in Taiwan’s parliament, but the opposition parties’ insistence on pushing the bills through the legislature without proper deliberation has violated regular democratic practices,” said Liao Yan-cheng, a 78-year-old retiree.

There are also concerns that the opposition may misuse these new legislative powers to undermine President Lai’s administration over the next four years. Max Wang, an 18-year-old student, expressed his worries: “Since the opposition parties will maintain control over the legislature for the next four years, they can ram through this controversial bill without following the proper legislative process.”

The amendments grant lawmakers the authority to demand annual reports from the president and interrogate government officials. They also increase the legislature’s control over government budgets and its ability to investigate government projects. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has criticized the reforms, arguing that they could undermine Taiwan’s democracy, while the KMT insists the changes are necessary to check the president’s powers.

Concerns about the constitutionality of the reforms have been raised by legal scholars and bar associations, suggesting potential violations of the Republic of China’s constitution, according to VOA. Huang Cheng-Yi, a legal expert at Academia Sinica, pointed out constitutional issues, noting that some aspects of the reforms may be unconstitutional. He expects the DPP to challenge the reforms in the constitutional court.

Analysts warn that the amendments could empower the opposition to launch investigations that might hinder the Lai administration’s policy implementation and jeopardize national security. Despite mounting pressure, President Lai is expected to use his constitutional authority to request that legislators reconsider the reforms. With no single party holding a parliamentary majority, Taiwan faces the prospect of political gridlock, which could affect defense spending and social welfare policies.

Huang at Academia Sinica warns that prolonged political gridlock could threaten Taiwan’s democratic system, emphasizing the need for dialogue and compromise among all political parties to preserve democratic governance, Voice of America reported.

Taiwan President Vows Support for Military Amid Chinese Threats

May 24, 2024, 9:47 am

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te reiterated his pledge to support the armed forces and defend Taiwan as China began its two-day military drills, according to a report from Focus Taiwan. This commitment was given by President Lai on Thursday afternoon, just after China started its military exercises around Taiwan, during a visit to a Marine facility.

“My responsibility is to safeguard the nation and ensure the safety of all citizens,” President Lai stated during his visit to the 66th brigade of the Marine Corps in Taoyuan. This marked his first visit to the base in his capacity as the commander-in-chief of the country’s armed forces. He emphasized that in the face of external challenges and threats, Taiwan would uphold the values of freedom and democracy while striving to maintain regional peace and stability. Lai asserted his solidarity with all military personnel, affirming his commitment to protect national security.

Focus Taiwan stated that President Lai also reassured civilians of their safety and voiced faith in the military’s capacity to maintain national security. He reaffirmed his commitment to protect military people, advance defence reforms, and improve defence capabilities.

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) had begun joint military drills in a number of locations, including the Taiwan Strait, the north, south, and east of Taiwan Island, and the areas surrounding Taiwan-controlled territories like Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin. Although the PLA had not announced its planned military exercises, Xinhua reported that the PLA had done so. Situated along China’s southeast coast are these areas.

Naval Senior Captain Li Xi, spokesperson for the Chinese PLA Eastern Theater Command, stated that the exercises were intended as a response to the “separatist acts of ‘Taiwan independence’ forces” and a warning against external interference and provocation. However, specific details were not provided. As part of these drills, Chinese fighter jets conducted mock strikes against “high-value military targets” alongside naval vessels, including destroyers, frigates, and missile speedboats, as reported by China’s state broadcaster CCTV.

Dalai Lama Congratulates Elected Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te

May 21, 2024, 2:44 pm

Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, extended his congratulations to Taiwan’s new President, Lai Ching-te, who was inaugurated on May 20. The Dalai Lama praised the Taiwanese people’s commitment to democratic values, stating, “It is wonderful to see how firmly rooted democracy has become in Taiwan. The Taiwanese people have not only developed a flourishing, robust democracy but have also achieved great prosperity, while at the same time preserving their rich cultural traditions.” He also wished President Lai success in addressing the challenges ahead and fulfilling the aspirations of Taiwan’s citizens.

Lai Ching-te, a member of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), became the fifth popularly elected president of Taiwan, with the DPP now governing for a third consecutive four-year term. Lai, 64, and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim took office in a ceremony at the Presidential Office, where Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu of the Kuomintang (KMT) handed over the great seal of the nation, symbolizing Lai’s new role as head of state. The inauguration celebrations included street performances and a military display in Taipei, and outgoing President Tsai Ing-wen also attended the ceremony.

In his inauguration address, Lai Ching-te issued a stern warning to China, urging Beijing to cease its political and military intimidation of Taiwan. He called on China to “share with Taiwan the global responsibility of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait as well as the greater region, and ensure the world is free from the fear of war.”