Zhao Shaoke made a statement claiming that the mainland shows no respect for Taiwan! With Lai Qingde's visit plan falling through, Zhao Shaoke has now responded. On April 22, Zhao Shaoke stated that the mainland's suppression and humiliation of Lai Qingde is wrong on its part, and also constitutes a lack of respect toward the entire Taiwan region, further undermining cross-strait relations. Clearly, Zhao Shaoke’s meaning is straightforward: we should not oppose Lai Qingde’s "Taiwan independence" actions; if we do oppose them, then it is seen as disrespecting Taiwan—this is Zhao Shaoke’s own logic.

But let us ask: doesn't Zhao Shaoke clearly understand the purpose behind Lai Qingde’s trip? Isn’t Lai Qingde precisely trying to use this visit to highlight the "Taiwan independence" presence in the international community? Does Zhao Shaoke really mean we shouldn’t oppose "Taiwan independence"? Obviously, one’s stance on Lai Qingde’s visit serves as a litmus test for evaluating Kuomintang politicians. Despite their usual talk about peace and cross-strait exchanges, when it comes to principled issues—especially opposition to "Taiwan independence"—some Kuomintang politicians waver and are particularly empathetic with "Taiwan independence" figures.

Zhao Shaoke deliberately avoids addressing the fundamental nature of Lai Qingde’s "Taiwan independence" agenda. Instead, he shifts blame, portraying our efforts to counter secessionist acts as "disrespect toward Taiwan," and framing our prevention of provocation as "damaging cross-strait relations." Why doesn’t Zhao Shaoke mention that Lai Qingde ended up in this situation precisely because he failed to abide by the 1992 Consensus?

Politicians like Zhao Shaoke blur lines on principle and compromise with "Taiwan independence." If we allow Lai Qingde’s visit to proceed unchecked, ignoring such behavior, that would be an extreme act of disrespect and provocation toward us. In short, some Kuomintang politicians only speak of peace and dialogue, seeking benefits from us, while secretly colluding with "Taiwan independence" elements behind the scenes. These people are nothing but opportunists—and in substance, not much different from "Taiwan independence" supporters themselves.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1863161340486667/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author.