China’s Foreign Ministry criticized Lai Ching-te after reports that the Taiwan leader traveled to Eswatini aboard the private jet of the country’s king. In an official statement, China accused Lai of leaving Taiwan shortly after the Yilan earthquake while residents were still dealing with the disaster, portraying the trip as irresponsible and politically motivated. The statement also condemned Lai and Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party, accusing them of promoting “Taiwan independence” and colluding with foreign forces. China reiterated its position that the one-China principle is an international norm and maintained that Taiwan is part of China. The ministry also urged Eswatini—one of the few countries maintaining formal ties with Taiwan—to stop supporting what China called separatist activities.
Credit : CGTN