Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made an unexpected appearance at Asia’s largest security conference, which took center stage on Sunday.
The conference was dominated by the remarks of China’s defense chief, who criticized “separatists” in Taiwan, prompting a strong response from the Taiwanese government.
Zelensky, dressed in his signature olive green T-shirt, delivered a speech on the final day of the Shangri-La Dialogue forum in Singapore. He appealed for support and participation in a summit in Switzerland later this month, with the aim of bringing peace to his war-torn nation.
Speaking to a packed ballroom of delegates in formal business attire and military uniforms, Zelensky expressed his belief in a united world that can act in complete harmony.
During a news conference, Zelensky expressed his disappointment at not being able to meet the Chinese delegation at the conference and voiced his dismay that Beijing would not attend the peace summit.
China’s defense chief, Dong Jun, had earlier warned that the prospects of a peaceful reunification of Taiwan were diminishing. He vowed to prevent the island from gaining independence, as China considers Taiwan its own territory despite strong objections from the Taiwanese government. Last month, China conducted military exercises near the island in response to the inauguration of President Lai Ching-te, whom Beijing labels as a “separatist.”
Dong accused the “separatists” of making fanatical statements that betray the Chinese nation and their ancestors. He asserted that they would be remembered in history with shame.
While China claims to be committed to peaceful reunification with Taiwan, Dong emphasized that the People’s Liberation Army would remain a strong force in upholding national reunification.
In response, Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council, responsible for formulating China-related policies, expressed deep regret over the “provocative and irrational” comments. They reiterated that the People’s Republic of China has never governed the island.
The council stated that China has consistently made threats of force against Taiwan in international forums, which are in violation of the United Nations charter.
A US official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the topic, noted that Dong’s address did not bring any fresh perspectives.
