Taiwan President Vows Action Against China’s Infiltration Efforts

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te has accused China of intensifying influence campaigns and infiltration tactics to undermine the island’s democracy, pledging firm countermeasures to protect national security.

Speaking after a high-level security meeting, Lai stated that China is using various societal groups, including organized crime, media figures, and former military officials, to conduct subversive activities within Taiwan.

According to government data, 64 individuals were charged with Chinese espionage in 2024, a threefold increase from 2021, with most being current or former military personnel. Lai warned that such actions threaten Taiwan’s freedom, democracy, and stability.

The government has outlined 17 legal and economic measures to curb Beijing’s influence, including stricter residency reviews for Chinese nationals, resumption of military court operations, and increased scrutiny over financial and technological exchanges with China.

Additionally, Taiwan plans to monitor statements made by its entertainers working in China, in response to Beijing’s alleged pressure on pop stars to make pro-China remarks.

China continues to claim sovereignty over Taiwan, but Taipei maintains that the island’s future can only be decided by its people.