Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) has publicly criticized retired naval officer Lu Li-shih for remarks made during an interview with Chinese media at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition (Airshow China). The government body expressed regret over Lu’s “praise” for China’s military strength, emphasizing that such comments undermine Taiwan’s defense forces and national security.
The Controversial Remarks:
Lu Li-shih, a retired lieutenant commander of the Taiwanese navy, made headlines when he appeared at the airshow in Zhuhai, China, earlier this week. During an interview with Chinese media, Lu was quoted as saying:
“No one should be left out in this important era of Chinese national integration and rejuvenation,”
“Let Taiwanese understand how strong China is.”
These remarks were seen by the MAC as a praise for China’s military power, a sentiment that the Taiwanese government strongly opposes, particularly as the nation faces growing military threats from China.
Government’s Response:
Liang Wen-chieh, the spokesperson for the Mainland Affairs Council, expressed strong disapproval of Lu’s comments, calling them “deeply regrettable.” Liang pointed out that Lu’s praise for China’s military capabilities, particularly the J-35 fighter jets and YJ-21 missiles showcased at the airshow, could encourage sentiments sympathetic to Beijing’s aggressive posture towards Taiwan.
The MAC spokesperson stressed that Taiwan’s government has a clear stance: it will not praise the military threat posed by China across the Taiwan Strait. Liang further noted:
“It is impossible for us to praise or commend the military threat from the other side of the Taiwan Strait, especially when these forces are explicitly designed with Taiwan in mind.”
Although the comments were viewed as harmful to Taiwan’s national dignity, Liang clarified that, under Taiwanese law, no punitive action could be taken against Lu Li-shih, as the Cross-Strait Act only allows penalties for retired officers of general rank or higher.
Why No Action Can Be Taken:
The Ministry of National Defense (MND) explained why no penalties could be applied to Lu. According to the Cross-Strait Act, which governs relations between Taiwan and mainland China, retired officers below the rank of general do not face punitive measures such as the loss of pensions or revocation of military honors. Therefore, the ministry clarified that while Lu’s actions were made in his personal capacity, they were still damaging to Taiwan’s national pride.
Despite the absence of legal consequences, the MND reaffirmed that Taiwan’s military continues to prioritize patriotic education and has reminded all personnel, especially those approaching retirement, to avoid engaging in activities with Chinese authorities.
Public Outcry and Social Media Response:
While the government cannot take legal action, public opinion is being leveraged to condemn Lu’s remarks. The MAC urged society to express their disapproval of the retired officer’s actions through public opinion.
The incident has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many users calling for a stronger stance against Taiwanese individuals who express views sympathetic to China’s regime, especially amid rising tensions between the two sides.
The Broader Context:
Lu’s comments come at a time of heightened tensions between Taiwan and China, which has increased its military pressure on Taiwan, including frequent military drills and an ongoing diplomatic campaign to isolate Taiwan internationally. China views Taiwan as a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to bring it under its control.
Taiwan’s government, led by President Tsai Ing-wen, has firmly opposed any form of “integration” with China, emphasizing that Taiwan is a sovereign nation with its own democratic system and freedoms.
Key Takeaways:
- Lu Li-shih, a retired Taiwanese naval officer, praised China’s military strength during an interview at the 15th Airshow China.
- The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) has condemned his remarks, calling them “deeply regrettable.”
- Due to legal restrictions, no punitive measures can be taken against Lu, as he was not a general.
- The Taiwanese Ministry of National Defense (MND) continues to prioritize patriotic education and has reminded military personnel to avoid engagements with Chinese authorities.
- The incident has prompted public condemnation, with many calling for a more robust response to such comments.
FAQs:
1. Why did the Mainland Affairs Council criticize Lu Li-shih?
The MAC criticized Lu for praising China’s military power, which they see as undermining Taiwan’s defense forces and national dignity.
2. Can the Taiwanese government take action against Lu Li-shih?
No, under the Cross-Strait Act, only retired officers of the general rank or higher can face penalties, so no legal action can be taken against Lu.
3. What did Lu Li-shih say during the interview at Airshow China?
Lu praised China’s strength and emphasized the importance of Taiwanese understanding China’s “rejuvenation” and “integration” efforts.
4. What military equipment was showcased at the Airshow China that Lu referred to?
At the Airshow China, warplanes like the J-35 fighter jet and missiles like the YJ-21 were displayed, which are capable of being used against Taiwan.
5. How has the public reacted to Lu’s comments?
The public response has been largely negative, with many people voicing their disapproval on social media and urging stronger action against such views.
