In his remarks to Tsai, Rasmussen said Taiwan had the "right to exist in freedom and peace," as well as the right to decide its own future. China opposes any official exchange between other countries and Taiwan and has reacted with increasing anger over visits by Western politicians. Rasmussen's foundation, which invited Tsai to address its annual democracy summit for three consecutive years from 2020, was sanctioned by Beijing in 2021. In a New Year speech on Sunday, Tsai said ramped-up Chinese military activities around Taiwan were "unhelpful" for maintaining relations between the two. Only dialogue, cooperation and the common goal of promoting regional stability and development can make more people feel safe and happy," she added.

Source: Manila Times January 05, 2023 04:12 UTC