Reported 11 months ago
On June 26, 2024, the CCP's announced '22 Measures' to punish Taiwan independence continues to escalate. President Lai Ching-te responded strongly, stating that over 90% of Taiwan's population could be affected. The US Department of State also condemned China's rhetoric towards Taiwan, emphasizing that threats and legal warfare cannot solve cross-strait disputes peacefully. President's Office thanked the US for its support and called for international condemnation of China's weaponization of domestic laws. The '22 Measures' involve activities deemed as crimes of splitting the nation, with the most severe penalty being death. There are concerns about extraditing defendants to China through other countries, to which China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson responded, affirming that those who challenge the law will be prosecuted regardless of their location. While the enforcement agencies claim they will only target specific individuals, the new head of the Straits Exchange Foundation, Luo Wen-jia, warned that the '22 Measures' are a form of threat and intimidation. He urged caution for those traveling to China and expressed discontent over recent reports of alleged Chinese media involvement in Taiwan's TV political programs. The SEF head emphasized encouraging exchanges while ensuring they align with the purpose and spirit of the interactions, to avoid engaging in activities that might harm Taiwan's democratic system. Additionally, on the same day, the Penghu Coast Guard found a Chinese '3-no' fishing vessel illegally fishing in Taiwanese waters and apprehended it after a chase and seizure, imposing penalties and launching further investigations in accordance with the law.
Source: YAHOO