TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Guningtou (古寧頭) in Kinmen (金門) on Friday (Oct. 25), emphasizing its crucial role in securing Taiwan's future. The 1949 conflict halted Communist expansion to Taiwan and solidified Kuomintang control of the island.
At the commemoration, Lai highlighted the battle's historical significance, echoing themes from his recent National Day address. "The victory of the Battle of Guningtou teaches us that freedom and democracy are not to be taken for granted, and reminds us that we can resist authoritarianism as long as we stand united," Lai said.
The president reaffirmed Taiwan's autonomy, stating that China has no right to represent Taiwan and that the two sides are not subordinate to each other. He emphasized the Republic of China's established presence in Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu, asserting independence from the People's Republic of China.
Defining his presidential mission as safeguarding national progress and sovereignty, Lai expressed gratitude to the veterans in attendance. "Thank you for risking your lives to protect our country, our home," he said before departing early due to illness.
The commemoration comes amid rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Recently, the Penghu Defense Command (中華民國陸軍澎湖防衛指揮部) conducted its first-ever nighttime live-fire drills to enhance night combat capabilities.
China's latest military drill, code-named "Joint Sword-2024B" (聯合利劍-2024b), further highlights the growing security challenges in the region. These developments underscore the increasing complexity of maintaining peace and stability across the strait.
Lai's statements and the recent military activities on both sides reflect the ongoing struggle to balance historical remembrance with current geopolitical realities in the Taiwan Strait.
