The Mainland Affairs Council says President Tsai’s rejection of China’s “One Country, Two Systems” model reflects mainstream Taiwanese opinion. The council is the government’s chief organ in charge of China policy.
In her National Day address Thursday, Tsai said that accepting the “One County, Two Systems” model would leave no room for the continued existence of the Republic of China. The Republic of China is Taiwan’s official name.
Tsai’s remarks drew a critical reaction from Beijing.
In response, the Mainland Affairs Council said that China has been increasing pressure on Taiwan to accept the model since China’s president announced five principles for cross-strait unification in January. The council said that both the international community and Taiwan’s people see China as responsible for destroying cross-strait peace and regional security.
The council said Tsai’s National Day address also pointed out the need for Taiwan to defend its freedom and stand up for its survival when these are threatened, regardless of which political party is in charge.
The council said that the Republic of China’s existence as a sovereign nation is a fact. It said Taiwan’s people desire cross-strait peace, but will not be threatened into making concessions.