Second Term in Power for Tsai Ing-wen: Reiterates "No Acceptance of One Country, Two Systems"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] Tsai Ing-wen, the President of Taiwan who successfully secured re-election and began her second term, reiterated her refusal to accept China's imposed "One Country, Two Systems" policy.

On the 20th, President Tsai stated in her inauguration speech held on the outdoor stage of the Taipei Guest House, "We do not accept Beijing authorities' attempt to diminish Taiwan by promoting One Country, Two Systems, thereby undermining the current status of the Taiwan Strait," adding, "This is our firm principle."

While rejecting One Country, Two Systems, President Tsai emphasized that dialogue between China and Taiwan can take place on equal footing.

She said, "We will continue to strive for cross-strait dialogue and make more concrete contributions," and reiterated the eight-character phrase "Peace, Equality, Democracy, Dialogue."

Earlier, in her victory speech after the January presidential election, President Tsai expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with China and presented these eight characters.

President Tsai stated, "We will continue to handle cross-strait affairs based on the Constitution of the Republic of China," and "Maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is our consistent position."

Additionally, President Tsai expressed her intention to expand Taiwan's participation in the international community, building on its success in combating the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

She said, "Since January, Taiwan has surprised the international community with two achievements: democratic elections and COVID-19 prevention," adding, "Taiwan has already established itself globally as a successful democracy, a reliable partner, and a benevolent power." She continued, "We will participate more actively in international organizations and deepen relations with like-minded countries such as the United States, Japan, and Europe."

Taking advantage of Taiwan's success in COVID-19 prevention, Taiwan is currently pushing for re-entry as an observer to the World Health Organization (WHO) with full support from the United States.

Previously, under the pro-China President Ma Ying-jeou, Taiwan held observer status at the WHO, but after President Tsai took office, Taiwan was stripped of this status due to strong opposition from China. China continues to mobilize its national capabilities to isolate Taiwan from the international community.

Before the speech, President Tsai took the oath of office in the presidential office auditorium in front of the Taiwan national flag, the Blue Sky with a White Sun, and a portrait of Sun Yat-sen, officially beginning her second term.

Typically, the Taiwan presidential inauguration is held as a large-scale event on the outdoor stage in front of the presidential office, but this year it was conducted as a simplified indoor ceremony to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Currently, Taiwan is recognized for its success in COVID-19 prevention, and President Tsai is recording the highest approval ratings among all Taiwanese presidents.

According to a survey by the New Taiwan National Policy Think Tank, President Tsai's approval rating stands at 74.5%.

Meanwhile, Lai Ching-te, former Premier and a leading candidate for the next presidential election from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, will serve as Vice President during President Tsai's second term.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.