Taiwan doing all it can to prevent war amid China threat: VP Hsiao

Taipei, Oct. 28 (CNA) Taipei is doing all it can to prevent war amid mounting threats from Beijing, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) said in an interview with German broadcaster ARD.

In the 20-minute interview aired on Monday (local time), Hsiao compared Taiwan to a cat, agile and vigilant under harsh conditions but capable of self-defense, and called on the international community to treat the country with goodwill.

She said Taiwan will not always back down against escalating military pressure, cognitive warfare, and economic-political coercion from China. She emphasized that Taiwanese people are determined to defend their freedom and sovereignty.

Taiwan must continue to strengthen its defense capabilities, Hsiao added.

On the country's democratic credentials, she said "Taiwan, or the Republic of China (R.O.C.) (government) according to the Constitution" has long existed and is elected through democratic processes, reiterating that Taiwan's sovereignty belongs to its people.

Hsiao expressed openness to talks with Beijing based on mutual respect and equality, noting that cross-strait stability benefits both sides and the global community.

On the economic front, Hsiao said many Taiwanese companies have diversified their operations to reduce reliance on China, encouraging German firms to adopt the same strategy.

Drawing parallels with the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Hsiao warned that aggression produces no true winners. She stressed the importance of democratic nations uniting to safeguard freedom and resilient institutions.

Hsiao highlighted Germany as Taiwan's most important European trade partner, adding that cooperation in semiconductors and microelectronics could deepen further amid the rise of artificial intelligence.

She concluded by urging Europe to pay attention to Indo-Pacific security. Beijing must be continually reminded that peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait serve global interests, and any threats could disrupt international trade and supply chains.