“Whether or not Taiwan is a country is not up to Wang Yi, nor the People's Republic of China, to say,” Lin stated at a press briefing. “We choose our governments democratically. It is our business what our name is.”

China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has ramped up military drills and diplomatic pressure to assert its claim. Despite this, Taiwan’s leadership continues to reject China’s stance, calling for peaceful dialogue. President Lai has repeatedly offered talks, which Beijing has ignored, labelling him a “separatist.”

Lin, when asked what he would say if he met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, replied, “First, extend the hand of friendship. If he shook my hand, that would be a good start. If he takes his hand back, that’s his problem.”

He acknowledged that the two sides differ fundamentally but emphasized the importance of human connection. “We are all human,” he said.

Taiwan, officially named the Republic of China, has been self-governing since 1949 after the Nationalists fled to the island following their defeat in the Chinese civil war.

While Taiwan is not a member of most international organizations due to Beijing’s objections, its government maintains that the global community increasingly sees Taiwan as a legitimate state.

On Tuesday, President Lai reiterated Taiwan’s commitment to peace but stressed the need for stronger defences. In response, China dismissed his words as “a waste of effort” and warned of further military drills around the island.

“Whether or not Taiwan is a country is not up to Wang Yi, nor the People's Republic of China, to say,” Lin stated at a press briefing. “We choose our governments democratically. It is our business what our name is.”

China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has ramped up military drills and diplomatic pressure to assert its claim. Despite this, Taiwan’s leadership continues to reject China’s stance, calling for peaceful dialogue. President Lai has repeatedly offered talks, which Beijing has ignored, labelling him a “separatist.”

Lin, when asked what he would say if he met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, replied, “First, extend the hand of friendship. If he shook my hand, that would be a good start. If he takes his hand back, that’s his problem.”

He acknowledged that the two sides differ fundamentally but emphasized the importance of human connection. “We are all human,” he said.

Taiwan, officially named the Republic of China, has been self-governing since 1949 after the Nationalists fled to the island following their defeat in the Chinese civil war.

While Taiwan is not a member of most international organizations due to Beijing’s objections, its government maintains that the global community increasingly sees Taiwan as a legitimate state.

On Tuesday, President Lai reiterated Taiwan’s commitment to peace but stressed the need for stronger defences. In response, China dismissed his words as “a waste of effort” and warned of further military drills around the island.