Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council Minister, Chiu Chui-cheng, has expressed concerns that Chinese President Xi Jinping may escalate “gray-zone” activities around Taiwan if he secures a fourth term. These activities, which are designed to challenge the current status quo across the Taiwan Strait, could see an intensification of pressure on Taiwan, Chiu warned.
Chiu highlighted potential expansions in Beijing’s efforts to extend its jurisdiction in the region and seek broader international acceptance of its territorial claims. He cautioned that China might push its “one country, two systems” framework more aggressively, a model that Taiwan has consistently rejected due to its commitment to maintaining a distinct democratic system and way of life from China’s political model.
Further, Chiu accused Beijing of leveraging historical narratives and cross-strait exchanges to further its political goals. This includes activities surrounding events like the 160th anniversary of Sun Yat-sen’s birth, which Chiu claims are being used to advance China’s objectives.
The remarks come amid ongoing concerns in Taiwan over China’s use of gray-zone tactics, which include maritime pressure and other strategic actions aimed at undermining Taiwan’s position. Chiu’s comments underscore the tensions exacerbated by China’s military and diplomatic maneuvers in the region, highlighting the fragile nature of cross-strait relations.