Fri Jul 18 07:25:43 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Taiwan’s Vice-President Hsiao Bi-khim stated that Taiwan does not seek conflict with China and reiterated President Lai’s offer of talks. She emphasized that Beijing’s aggressive military actions are counterproductive, hindering growth and prosperity for both sides of the Taiwan Strait. She highlighted Taiwan’s contribution to China’s economic growth and defended maintaining the status quo as a responsible choice. The statement comes amidst increased Chinese military activity around Taiwan and rising cyberattacks targeting its chip industry.

**News Article:**

**Taiwan Reaffirms Peaceful Stance Amidst Rising Tensions with China**

*TAIPEI, Taiwan -* In a statement delivered to the Taiwan Foreign Correspondents’ Club on Friday, Taiwan’s Vice-President Hsiao Bi-khim reiterated the island nation’s commitment to peace and stability, despite escalating pressure from China. Hsiao emphasized that Taiwan does not seek conflict with China and will not provoke confrontation, reaffirming President Lai Ching-te’s offer of dialogue between Taipei and Beijing.

“We do not seek conflict; we will not provoke confrontation,” Hsiao stated, urging China to reconsider its increasingly aggressive military posturing. According to Hsiao, such actions are “counterproductive” and deprive both sides of the Taiwan Strait of opportunities for growth and prosperity. In addition Taiwan reported 50 Chinese military aircraft detected near the island.

Hsiao also highlighted Taiwan’s significant contributions to China’s economic development over the past decades, stating that this prosperity has been “only been possible under a peaceful and stable environment.”

Her comments come at a time of heightened tension between the two nations, with China increasing its military presence around Taiwan and a rise in China-linked cyberattacks targeting Taiwan’s crucial chip industry. China views democratic Taiwan as a breakaway province, a claim disputed by the Taiwanese government.

Despite the challenging circumstances, Hsiao defended Taiwan’s policy of maintaining the status quo with China. “Defending the status quo is our choice, not because it is easy, but because it is responsible and consistent with the interests of our entire region,” she concluded.

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