Taiwan President’s Hawaii Trip Sparks Chinese Outrage
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s transit through Hawaii, en route to a Pacific tour, has prompted a strong condemnation from China, which views Taiwan as its territory. Lai’s visit, framed as promoting democracy and peace, included a Pearl Harbor visit emphasizing the importance of preventing war. China’s defense ministry vowed to oppose any official interaction with Taiwan and to crush independence efforts. The trip continues to several Pacific island nations that recognize Taiwan’s independence.
John Q. Hosedrinker