China issues stern warning to defiant secessionists in Taiwan, asserting potential capital punishment for acts promoting independence.
Authoritarian China issues stern warnings to Taiwanese independence advocates, threatening them with the ultimate penalty – death, in extreme cases. The latest directive emphasizes the need for strict enforcement of laws against separatist activities advocating for the country's division and inciting secession crimes, with an emphasis on safeguarding national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
A spokesperson from China's Ministry of Public Security made the grim statement to journalists in Beijing, clarifying that the gravest consequence for secessionist acts is capital punishment.
As expected, Taiwan remained silent on the issue, initially at least, with a government representative confirming the new guidelines were under review. It is important to note that China views Taiwan, a democratically governed island, as its own territory. Taiwan's recently elected President, Lai Ching-te, has been branded as a separatist by China.
Shortly following Lai's inauguration in May, China conducted a military exercise around the island. This punishment, as stated, was in retaliation for Lai's inauguration speech and pro-independence stance of Taiwan. China perceived this as a declaration of two independent nations.
Since the Communist takeover in mainland China in 1949, Taiwan has remained under the control of the previous government. The island enjoys support from the United States and other nations, though they refrain from official diplomatic recognition due to political consideration towards China. Taiwan's significant role in the global semiconductor industry makes its fate crucial for the world economy. For instance, TSMC, the world's largest contract chip manufacturer, is based in Taiwan.
