Mainland scholars criticized the so-called "October 10th" speech by Taiwan region's leader Lai Ching-te during a seminar held in Beijing on Sunday.
Experts specializing in Taiwan issues at the seminar held at Renmin University of China stated that Lai's latest speech clearly demonstrated that his separatist stance in pursuit of "Taiwan independence" remains unchanged.
Experts also warned that Lai's separatist remarks revealed his dangerous intent to recklessly pursue "Taiwan independence," labeling him as an outright "pragmatic war instigator."
"Firstly, judging from his speech this time, he has made some adjustments in his rhetoric and speech skills, and his use of language may appear to be gentler. But in essence, his stance as a separatist seeking 'Taiwan independence' has not changed. Moreover, he might adopt even stronger and more rigid measures to promote 'Taiwan independence' or engage in so-called 'anti-China' activities in the future," said Yang Jinghua, associate researcher at the Institute of Taiwan Studies of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.
"From Lai's speech, we can tell that there are six things that remain unchanged. Specifically, the first is that its essence of promoting 'Taiwan independence' has not changed. Second, the position of confronting the mainland has not changed. Third, the narrative of using democracy and freedom card has not changed. Fourth, tactic of colluding with external forces has not changed. Fifth, the practice of shifting the blame for deteriorating cross-strait relations to the mainland has not changed. Sixth, the repetition of the 'China threat theory' has not changed," said Wang Yingjin, director of the Cross-Strait Relations Research Center of Renmin University of China.
Experts pointed out that the mainland has sufficient strategic determination and confidence to maintain the initiative and the ability to steer in cross-Strait relations.
They emphasized that Lai's political tactics will not alter the historical and prevailing trend that the motherland will ultimately achieve reunification.
"The mainland maintain the initiative and the ability to steer in cross-Strait relations as well as the peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. We have a strong capability to shape the situation. We are working towards shaping the situation in the Taiwan Strait in a direction that is conducive to peace in the Taiwan Strait and conducive to unification," said Li Zhenguang, dean of the Institute of Taiwan Studies at Beijing Union University.
Lai Ching-te is outright "pragmatic war instigator": mainland experts
Macao has been emerging as a global hub for conventions and exhibitions in recent years by exploring the enormous opportunities in the sector, driving the region to advance its economic diversification and embrace a brighter future.
Macao has received many awards this year, such as the Best Convention City (Asia) and the Best BT-MICE City, showcasing the recognition for and influence of Macao's exhibition industry.
More than 1,000 electronic game enthusiasts from all over the world gathered recently in Macao to participate in a esports themed event.
Su Zhili, organizer of the event, said that Macao's rich experience in hosting large-scale events, coupled with its good infrastructure, has driven him to choose the region as an ideal destination to hold such an activity.
"Macao has held many similar large-scale events. It has rich experience, and the facilities at the venue are relatively mature, so we can start our work comfortably," said Su.
During the first three quarters of 2024, Macao held more than 1,000 conferences and exhibitions in total.
"We will invite more professional, special conferences to be held in Macao and also cultivate more exhibition brands with international influence in Macao, so as to promote Macao's exhibitions to be more market-oriented, professional, international, digital and greener from various aspects. This is our goal," said Elaine Wong, member of the Macao Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute.
In addition, multiple large exhibitions and conferences, such as the Macao International Trade and Investment fair, the Macao Franchise Expo, and the International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum, are held regularly in Macao.
With the introduction of a series of policies and measures to facilitate the exchanges between the mainland and Macao, as well as the construction and development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, Macao's convention and exhibition industry will embrace more opportunities for development in the foreseeable future.
"We have such a good industrial base in the Greater Bay Area. The mode of 'Convention and Exhibition + Industry' not only integrates the industries of Macao, but also the industries of the Greater Bay Area. In addition, Macao actively integrates into the national development and plays a role in the Belt and Road. Why are we so confident in Macao's convention and exhibition sector? Because it is backed by the motherland, and the country gives Macao great support," said Alan Ho, chairman of the Macao Association of Convention, Exhibition and Tourism Sectors.
Macao emerges as global hub for conventions and exhibitions, driving economic diversification and international recognition
