Taiwan's Vice President, and the frontrunner for the new presidential position, William Lai, announced in an interview today that he has no plans to change the official name of the island, emphasizing that Taiwan "is not subordinate" to China. Lai is not favored by Beijing due to his previous statements declaring that he "works practically for the independence of Taiwan," which is a red line for China, considering the democratically governed island part of its territory.
Lai has repeatedly stated that he does not seek to change the status quo and is simply highlighting the fact that Taiwan is already an independent state, and its people alone can decide their future. According to a text released by his election campaign team, Lai said, "The current name, according to our constitution, is the Republic of China." He added, "There are no plans to change our country's name."
Taiwan is set to hold its presidential elections in January. President Tsai Ing-wen cannot run again after serving two terms in office.
