During a press briefing in Beijing on October 8, Zhu Fenglian, the spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, addressed recent comments by Lai Ching-te regarding his so-called “homeland theory.” Zhu described Lai’s remarks as a regressive attempt to advocate for Taiwan independence, highlighting his rigid stance and ulterior motives to heighten tensions.
Responding to questions about Lai’s assertions from a recent event in Taipei—where he claimed that the People’s Republic of China (PRC) could never be considered the homeland for those in the Republic of China (ROC) and suggested that the ROC might be seen as the homeland for individuals over 75 living in the PRC—Zhu emphasized that these statements are misleading and crafted to distort the truth. She indicated that Lai’s rhetoric seeks to highlight political divisions and deliberately sever historical connections, while persistently promoting his “new two-state theory,” which undermines the national and ethnic identity of the Taiwanese people.
Zhu firmly reiterated that Taiwan is an integral part of China, referencing clear historical and legal facts that support this position. She cited October 25, 1945, when the Chinese government declared sovereignty over Taiwan, and pointed out that following the establishment of the PRC on October 1, 1949, it became the sole legitimate government representing all of China. She stressed that this governmental change did not alter China’s sovereignty or territorial integrity, which naturally encompasses Taiwan.
Despite the current state of cross-strait relations, Zhu stated that China’s sovereignty and territory have never been divided and cannot be divided. The fundamental truth that both mainland China and Taiwan are part of one China remains unchanged. She asserted that no matter what “historical paradoxes” or “Taiwan independence myths” Lai introduces, they cannot modify the objective reality of this united identity or diminish the patriotic sentiments present among the Taiwanese population.
Zhu urged the people of Taiwan to recognize Lai’s push for independence and to staunchly oppose any separatist movements or foreign interference. She called for a united effort to protect the shared homeland of the Chinese nation, ensuring peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and safeguarding the security and well-being of its residents.
