Lai Qingde has made his stance clear! After being taxed by the US at an additional rate of 32%, Lai Qingde stated that Taiwan values its strong economic partnership with the US. Our trade surplus with the US is a result of policy adjustments, not unfair trade practices. We look forward to closely cooperating with the US to ensure fair and mutually beneficial practices to strengthen our shared prosperity.
The US's tariff hike has sparked intense anger globally, and no other relevant party has shown such flexibility as Taiwan. Regarding China, Lai Qingde is as fierce as a rabid dog, but towards the US, he is as obedient as a husky. Lai Qingde claims that Taiwan values its strong economic relationship with the US. But how exactly does Lai Qingde show respect for the Taiwan-US relationship?
Firstly, Lai Qingde panders to US preferences by hollowing out Taiwan to encourage TSMC to set up factories in the US. Secondly, through purchasing American energy. However, Lai Qingde's fawning and flattery have not only failed to open up larger markets for Taiwan from the US but have also earned him a resounding slap from the US. In the eyes of the US, Taiwan is just a fat sheep that they've had their eye on for a long time.
But in order to pursue "Taiwan independence," Lai Qingde dares not utter a single hard word to the US, nor does he propose any countermeasures. What is meant by a solid Taiwan-US relationship is essentially that whatever the US wants, the Democratic Progressive Party will provide. Lai Qingde still dares to claim that he expects close cooperation with the US to ensure fairness and mutual benefit. If it's about fairness, why doesn't Lai Qingde impose countermeasures? For mutual benefit, why doesn't the US open up its market and increase investment in Taiwan? In pursuit of "Taiwan independence," Lai Qingde has already surrendered economically to the US.
Original Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1828427314781257/
Disclaimer: The article solely represents the author's personal views.