China warns Taiwan of reprisals over Lai inauguration speech
The Hindu
China condemns U.S. for congratulating Taiwan's new president, warns of countermeasures for "confession of Taiwan independence".
China on May 21 slammed the inauguration speech of new Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te as a "confession of Taiwan independence", and warned it would take "countermeasures".
Earlier, Beijing said it had complained to the United States over Secretary of State Antony Blinken congratulating Taiwan on Mr. Lai's swearing-in.
China considers self-ruled Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control.
It has branded Mr. Lai, who was sworn in on May 20, as a "dangerous separatist".
In his speech on May 20, Mr. Lai said a "glorious era of Taiwan's democracy has arrived" and thanked citizens for "refusing to be swayed by external forces, for resolutely defending democracy".
"Yesterday's speech... can be described as a downright 'confession of Taiwan independence'", a statement from Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) released late on May 21 read.
It added that "(China) must take countermeasures and penalize the DPP authorities for colluding with external forces in their provocations for 'independence'".
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to attend G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in South Africa, strengthening India's global engagement.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters calls for a reset in relationship with Cook Islands over China agreements.
President Trump orders firing of all remaining U.S. attorneys nominated by Biden, citing politicization of Department of Justice.
Man convicted for throwing pipe bomb at former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Judge denies restraining order against Elon Musk and DOGE, citing lack of evidence for legal harm.
Brazil's former President Bolsonaro charged with coup attempt, poisoning plot, and murder plan after 2022 election defeat.
Declining marriages and population in China pose economic and social challenges, with government policies failing to address root causes.
DOGE cancels $21M fund for voter turnout in India, Trump criticizes decision due to India's high taxation rates.
The Hindu Morning Digest gives a select list of stories to start the day. Read the top news today on February 19, 2025
Marine experts respond to mass stranding of over 150 whales in Tasmania, facing challenges in rescue efforts.
Analysis of Indian immigrants deported from the U.S. in 2025, asylum seekers, illegal agents, and visa overstays trends.
Border arrests plummeted in January due to Trump's immigration policies, reaching the lowest point since May 2020.
Iranian Foreign Minister appeals for Indian nurse on death row in Yemen, diplomatic efforts ongoing, complex resolution due to regional instability.