Taiwan's president advises China to return Russia's 'historical' lands in Far East
President of Taiwan Lai Ching-te (Getty Images)
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has proposed that China should reclaim the "historical" territories in the Far East from Russia, citing Moscow's weakened state, citing Reuters.
According to Lai, if China’s claims on Taiwan are based on territorial integrity, then it should also seek the return of lands ceded to Russia by the last Chinese dynasty in the 19th century.
"If it is for the sake of territorial integrity, why doesn't it take back the lands occupied by Russia that were signed over in the Treaty of Aigun? Russia is now at its weakest right?" Lai said.
Lai added that China is not pursuing this but continues to threaten the annexation of Taiwan. He believes this is because Beijing's intention to annex Taiwan is not genuinely about territorial integrity.
"China's intention to attack and annex Taiwan is not because of what any one person or political party in Taiwan says or does. It is not for the sake of territorial integrity that China wants to annex Taiwan," Lai said.
Taiwan-China relations
The relationship between Taiwan and China is complex and tense, primarily revolving around the issue of sovereignty. China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and seeks to reunify it with the mainland through both diplomatic and military pressure. On the other hand, Taiwan operates as a de facto independent state with its own government, economy, and military, though it avoids declaring formal independence to prevent escalating the conflict with China.
China actively works to isolate Taiwan on the international stage, barring it from participating in many international organizations and events. Meanwhile, Taiwan enjoys support from several countries, notably the United States, which supplies the island with arms for its defense.
Recently, tensions between Taiwan and China have escalated, particularly with Chinese military drills and aircraft flights near Taiwan's borders.
In June, it was reported that Taiwan, in response to the threat from China, would conduct military exercises closely resembling combat situations. One of the unique elements of these exercises for the Taiwanese military will be night drills.
For a detailed analysis of Taiwan’s status and China’s claims to the island, read RBC-Ukraine's report.
