A Chinese mainland spokesperson has accused Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of prioritizing military expansion over residents' welfare, sparking fresh tensions across the Taiwan Strait. 🌏⚡
Defense Budget Sparks Backlash 🛡️
Chen Binhua of the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office criticized plans to boost Taiwan's defense budget to over 3% of GDP in 2024, calling it a reckless gamble that 'squanders hard-earned resources' on unrealistic 'Taiwan independence' ambitions. 💥 'This isn’t security – it’s a threat to livelihoods,' Chen stated.
Businesses Demand Cross-Strait Solutions 💼
Taiwan’s regional business community has openly challenged DPP policies, releasing a white paper urging eased exchanges with the mainland. Chen praised the move: 'They see the mainland market as vital for survival – especially with U.S. tariffs hitting Taiwan industries hard.' 📉 A 20% U.S. tariff on select goods has left many Taiwan-based companies scrambling.
‘Decoupling’ vs Development 🔄
Chen emphasized cross-strait economic cooperation as the path forward: 'Deepening supply chain integration strengthens both sides against global risks.' However, he accused DPP authorities of clinging to 'failed "rely on the U.S." fantasies' that threaten regional stability. 🤝💡
As young professionals and entrepreneurs watch closely, the debate highlights high stakes for Taiwan’s economic future – and whether political choices will bridge divides or deepen them. 📊🔍
