President Lai Warns Taiwanese Military Cadets Against Chinese Espionage and Upholds Democratic Resolve
By Ben Blanchard and Ann Wang
TAIPEI, June 30 — Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te addressed military cadets Tuesday at Fu Hsing Kang College, urging steadfast resistance to Chinese infiltration and espionage while emphasizing the preservation of democracy and national sovereignty. The Cold War-era institution, established in 1951 as a counter to communist influence, remains a critical training ground for officers amid rising tensions.
China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, maintains daily military patrols near the island and has accused Taiwan of heightened espionage risks. President Lai underscored the persistent threat, stating, “In the face of various threats and challenges, including China’s infiltration, division, sabotage, and espionage activities targeting our armed forces, I ask all of you to establish a clear awareness of friend and foe.”
Drawing from the college’s legacy, he called on graduates to reject communism, safeguard democratic values, and recognize the equal standing of both the Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China. Historical artifacts, including inscriptions by Chiang Kai-shek — “I regard the nation’s rise or fall as my own personal responsibility” — frame the speaker’s remarks, reflecting ongoing ideological debates about Taiwan’s trajectory.
International observers noted the presence of ambassadors from Belize, Guatemala, and Paraguay, all of which maintain unofficial ties with Taiwan, along with the de facto Jordanian ambassador, a relic of Cold War military cooperation. The event highlights Taiwan’s continued efforts to strengthen institutional resilience against external pressures, with China’s coercive tactics shaping domestic security narratives. The National Defence University, which now oversees the college, reiterated commitments to prioritize defense readiness and ideological vigilance.
