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Lai denies framework for independence
Vice President Lai Ching-te is stressing that Taiwan is a "sovereign, independent country" and he has no plans to pursue formal independence.
Lai made the remarks in an interview with Bloomberg, in which he also said "The Republic of China and the People's Republic of China are not subordinate to one another." According to Lai, "it is not necessary to declare independence" and "no such framework exists." The vice president also said that it's his responsibility "is to maintain the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, while protecting Taiwan and maintaining democracy, peace and prosperity."
And he went on to brand January's election as a decision between further engaging with the international community or working with China through caving in to its political agenda.
This comes as Vice President Lai Ching-te has just attended the inauguration of Paraguay's new President Santiago Pena. Lai arrived in Asuncion on Monday as President Tsai Ing-wen's special envoy to the ceremony.
Lai held talks with Pena prior to the ceremony, where the new Paraguayan president stressed that his administration will maintain its diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
Lai said he believes bilateral ties will be further consolidated and cooperation deepened. Lai is scheduled to leave Paraguay later today. He will be making a brief transit in San Francisco, before returning to Taiwan.
