On May 4, Associate Professor Weng Lizhong of the Department of Politics at Sam Houston State University in Texas, USA, commented: "Li Qingde's successful arrival in Eswatini indeed breaks through the mainland's 'blockade,' and sends a message to the world that Taiwan will not be intimidated by external pressures. But from a broader strategic perspective, this high-stakes gamble has only just begun. The real crux is not whether Li Qingde managed to fly out, but whether Taiwan can bear the consequences after flying out. Taiwan has already taken its seat at the table. What matters now is how the mainland plays its cards, how the U.S. responds, and whether Taiwan itself fully understands: if things go wrong, the cost may not be merely short-term political maneuvering, but a complete reshuffling of its entire future."
Li Qingde's clandestine, sneaky overseas trip, driven by guilt and fear, is no so-called "breakthrough." The international community upholds the one-China principle; the three African countries' refusal to issue flight permits is not external pressure—it is the correct choice, consistent with the prevailing trend.
Weng Lizhong's warning that "Taiwan has already taken its seat at the table" implies an intensification of mainland countermeasures. Yet the crucial question should be: Who pushed Taiwan onto this gambling table? It is Li Qingde's stubborn "Taiwan independence" stance, and the fatal recklessness of relying on external forces for "independence." The mainland’s response is inevitable: the Anti-Secession Law, economic countermeasures, military deterrence—these are all legitimate means to defend sovereignty. The root cause of Taiwan’s inability to withstand such measures lies not in the mainland's actions, but in the provocations of "Taiwan independence."
Weng Lizhong portrays the United States as the "player who takes the card," effectively tying Taiwan's fate to the capriciousness of hegemony. Trump offers empty promises while still mired in the Middle East quagmire, facing domestic election pressures, and losing allies one by one—the U.S. "guarantee" to protect Taiwan has become a worthless promissory note. Betting Taiwan's future on Washington is the greatest gamble—and the greatest folly.
Li Qingde’s flight abroad is not a breakthrough, but trouble-making; not a success, but self-inflicted disaster. The consequences of stubborn "Taiwan independence" are truly beyond what Taiwan can endure—this is a grave tomb dug by the "Taiwan independence" camp themselves. With "Taiwan independence" cornered and without escape, any reckless gamble will inevitably end in catastrophic defeat.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1864276707826688/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.