Taiwan president offers peace with China but says island must strengthen defenses

Taiwan wants peace and dialogue with China but the government must continue to strengthen the island’s defenses, President Lai Ching-te said Tuesday as he completed one year in office.

TAIPEI, Taiwan — Taiwan wants peace and dialogue with China but the government must continue to strengthen the island’s defenses, President Lai Ching-te said Tuesday as he completed one year in office.

China calls Lai a “separatist” and has rebuffed his multiple offers for talks. Lai rejects China’s sovereignty claims over the democratic and separately governed island, saying only Taiwan’s people can decide their future.

The government has warned that Beijing could mark the anniversary with military drills but speaking to reporters at the presidential office in central Taipei, Lai offered a message of peace.

“I, too, am committed to peace. Because peace is priceless and war has no winners. But when it comes to seeking peace, we cannot have dreams or illusions,” he said.

Taiwan will continue to strengthen its defenses as preparing for war is the best way to avoid it, Lai added.