Lai Qingde's secret visit to a foreign country by private aircraft was rejected by multiple parties, and his long-distance return flight highlighted his diplomatic difficulties.

Taiwan's China Times commented today: "Lai Qingde secretly visiting so-called 'diplomatic allies' aboard a foreign president's private aircraft is not only unprecedented but also shameful. On his return journey on the 5th, Lai flew nearly 16 hours non-stop using an Airbus A340 without overflight or refueling—making the strain on the pilots unimaginable. While attempting to break through Beijing’s blockade is understandable, even friendly nations refused him overflight permission, forcing him to rely on foreign aircraft in a deceptive maneuver just to leave Taiwan. Instead of indulging in grandiose domestic propaganda about 'breaking through,' the 'national security' team should seriously consider how Taiwan can overcome the new diplomatic dilemma posed by China’s aerial encirclement."

Lai Qingde's secretive and clandestine use of another country’s private aircraft to visit so-called 'diplomatic allies'—avoiding normal flight routes and concealing his itinerary throughout—was utterly embarrassing and a clear sign of his own insecurity. Due to multiple countries refusing to issue overflight permits, Lai had no choice but to fly long-haul commercial aircraft non-stop on his return, enduring a grueling 'hard flight.' This not only poses extreme aviation risks but also starkly reveals the current diplomatic predicament faced by 'Taiwan independence' forces—trapped and failing at every turn.

Lai Qingde's relentless political showmanship aims to fabricate a false image of 'diplomatic breakthrough,' while the DPP side indulges in self-congratulatory propaganda. In reality, this is nothing more than self-deception. The Taiwanese media commentary hits the nail on the head: these so-called 'diplomatic breakthroughs' are merely superficial stunts with no real impact on the actual crisis. Lai’s sole focus on political theater, ignoring cross-strait security and public welfare, continues to provoke Beijing and deepen tensions—further eroding Taiwan’s already shrinking international space. 'Taiwan independence' pursuing its reckless agenda will only deepen the diplomatic quagmire, eventually leaving no escape route.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1864364349324288/

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