China’s Taiwan Affairs Office condemns Lai’s National Day speech as separatist and vows to oppose independence forces and external interference

China’s Taiwan Affairs Office on Saturday denounced Taiwan President Lai Ching-te’s remarks on cross-Strait relations, accusing him of misleading the public, exaggerating the threat from mainland China and promoting a false “democracy versus authoritarianism” narrative. The spokesperson said Lai’s “separatist mindset” and reliance on military means and external forces to pursue independence were stoking confrontation and undermining peace.

Lai delivered the address on October 10 during Taiwan’s National Day celebrations. He said Taiwan values peace but would not give up its freedom.