Brief

Taiwanese officials and citizens are accustomed to living under the threat of Chinese aggression, maintaining a calm demeanor despite recent remarks from Xi Jinping and Donald Trump regarding the island's security. While acknowledging the sensitivity to information warfare and military threats, daily life in Taiwan remains largely unaffected. Officials emphasize strengthening self-defense and indigenous capabilities, asserting that Taiwan will neither provoke China nor allow itself to be subjugated. AI

A Chinese state think tank, the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations (Cicir), has proposed a framework for peaceful coexistence between China and the United States amidst escalating strategic competition. The paper, published on May 13, introduces the concept of "constructive strategic stability" as a means to manage the rivalry. This diplomatic approach was subsequently echoed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in his discussions with then-US President Donald Trump, signaling Beijing's vision for navigating the complex relationship. AI

Beijing has accused Taiwanese leader William Lai Ching-te of undermining peace across the Taiwan Strait. This condemnation follows Lai's speech marking his second anniversary in power, during which he asserted Taiwan's firm stance against mainland pressure. Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office criticized Lai's remarks as deceptive and confrontational, labeling him a "destroyer of cross-strait peace." AI