Thu Dec 04 02:35:03 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, in an interview with the New York Times, urged Chinese President Xi Jinping to focus on improving the well-being of the Chinese people instead of pursuing territorial expansion, given China’s current economic struggles. Lai highlighted Taiwan’s projected economic growth of 7.37% compared to China’s estimated growth of around 4-5%, offering Taiwan’s willingness to help China address its economic challenges. The statement comes amid increased military and political pressure from China, which views Taiwan as its own territory.

News Article:

Taiwan President Urges Xi to Prioritize Economy Over Territorial Ambitions

Taipei, Taiwan – December 4, 2025 – In a bold statement, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has called on Chinese President Xi Jinping to prioritize the economic well-being of the Chinese people over territorial ambitions, citing China’s current economic challenges.

Speaking at the New York Times’ DealBook Summit, President Lai highlighted the stark contrast between Taiwan’s projected economic growth of 7.37% for this year and international estimates placing China’s growth at only slightly above 4%.

“We sincerely hope that as China faces economic pressures, President Xi Jinping will focus not on territorial expansion but on improving the well-being of the Chinese people,” President Lai stated, according to a transcript released by his office.

President Lai also offered Taiwan’s assistance in addressing China’s economic difficulties, though he did not provide specific details.

The remarks come against a backdrop of increasing military and political pressure from Beijing, which views the self-governed island of Taiwan as a renegade province. Taiwan’s government firmly rejects these claims.

While China is on track to meet its 5% growth target thanks to policy support and increased exports, analysts remain concerned about economic imbalances and deflationary pressures. Taiwan’s economy, driven by strong demand for artificial intelligence technology, is expected to grow at its fastest pace in 15 years.

The Chinese government has yet to officially respond to President Lai’s comments. The international community will be watching closely to see how Beijing reacts to this latest challenge.

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