Chinese Premier Li Qiang raises threat of ‘external interference’ in Taiwan during first ‘two sessions’ work report
- It is the second time since 2022 that a Chinese premier has mentioned foreign involvement in the island during a speech to top legislature
- Li’s annual government report comes just months before independence-leaning William Lai Ching-te takes office as Taiwanese president
Beijing’s annual government report raised opposition to “external interference” on Taiwan as the island’s independence-leaning president-elect awaits inauguration in May.
To achieve this, Beijing should “resolutely oppose ‘Taiwan independence’ separatism and external interference and promote cross-strait relations and peaceful development”, Li said.
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Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivers his first work report amid concerns about state of the economy
Beijing sees the self-ruled island as part of China to be reunited by force if necessary. Most countries, including the US, do not recognise Taiwan as an independent state, but Washington is opposed to any attempt to take the self-governed island by force and is committed to supplying it with weapons.