President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has extended his congratulations to Lai Ching-te on his election as Taiwan’s next president. The message of congratulations came shortly after the Department of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to its One-China policy.
President Marcos expressed his congratulations on behalf of the Filipino people and emphasized the desire for close collaboration, strengthened mutual interests, and the promotion of peace and prosperity between the Philippines and Taiwan.
In response, Lai Ching-te thanked President Marcos for his message and highlighted the enduring friendship between Taiwan and the Philippines. He expressed his commitment to enhancing economic and people-to-people ties while championing democracy, peace, and prosperity in the region.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Mao Ning, reiterated China’s stance that Taiwan is part of China and emphasized that the One-China policy should be upheld by other countries. Mao also stated that the elections in Taiwan are China’s internal affairs.
The exchange between President Marcos and President-elect Lai comes at a time of tensions between Manila and Beijing in the West Philippine Sea. The outcome of Taiwan’s presidential election is likely to have implications for the trajectory of relations between Taiwan and China in the coming years.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 16, 2024
