TAIPEI — Taiwan President Lai Ching-te stated on Thursday (Oct 10) that China has no authority to represent Taiwan, although he expressed the island's willingness to collaborate with Beijing on global issues like climate change. His remarks reflected a blend of firmness and openness.

Lai, who took office in May after his election in January, is viewed unfavorably by China, which labels him a "separatist." Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory, a stance that Lai and his administration reject.

In a keynote address outside the presidential office in Taipei, Lai emphasized that the Republic of China, Taiwan's official name, and the People's Republic of China are "not subordinate to each other." He stated, "On this land, democracy and freedom are flourishing. The People's Republic of China has no right to represent Taiwan."

Lai reaffirmed Taiwan's commitment to defending its sovereignty, maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait, and pursuing respectful dialogue with China. "I will uphold our pledge to resist any attempts to annex or encroach upon our sovereignty," he declared.

At the same time, Lai extended an invitation for cooperation with China. He said, "We are open to working with China on issues such as climate change, infectious disease control, and regional security to achieve peace and mutual prosperity for the well-being of people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait."

He expressed hope that China would meet international expectations by utilizing its influence to help resolve the conflict in Ukraine and issues in the Middle East. "We hope it will take on its international responsibilities and, alongside Taiwan, contribute to the peace, security, and prosperity of the region and the world," he added.

There was no immediate response from Beijing regarding his comments. This week, China accused Lai of escalating tensions, while Taiwan's defense ministry reported that China conducted another "joint combat readiness patrol" around the island, which Taipei describes as routine military harassment.

Taiwanese and Western officials have warned that China may increase military drills in reaction to Lai's speech. The United States, Taiwan's key international supporter despite lacking formal diplomatic ties, stated on Wednesday that China has no justification for using Lai's remarks as a reason for military pressure.

Lai has consistently offered to engage in dialogue with Beijing but has faced rejection. He maintains that only the people of Taiwan can determine their future.

In his address, Lai also celebrated Taiwan's diversity, referencing Nymphia Wind, the first East Asian winner of RuPaul's Drag Race, and Olympic gold medalist Lin Yu-ting, who is involved in a gender controversy related to this year's Paris Olympics. "The people of Taiwan are diverse and fearless. Our own Nymphia Wind is a queen on the world stage. The people of Taiwan are truly courageous. Lin Yu-ting, a daughter of Taiwan, is a queen in the boxing world," he remarked.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters