A call out to China for distorting the truth

THE CORNER ORACLE

- ANDREW J. MASIGAN

It is often said that China is the world's foremost peddler of fake news and distorted truths. The recent incident in the Taiwan Strait exemplifies this assertion.

Oct. 10 was a festive day for the Taiwanese people. Our friendly northern neighbor celebrated its 113th birthday amid much joy and celebration. As has become customary, President Lai Ching-te led his people to remember the many struggles their forefathers endured to achieve independence. He cited the achievements of the Taiwanese people and affirmed the country's commitment to a bright future anchored on democracy and the rule of law.

In his address, President Lai reiterated Taiwan's longtime position relating to their sovereignty. He stated: "On this land, democracy and freedom are growing and thriving. The People's Republic of China has no right to represent Taiwan." Lai further said, "I will... uphold the commitment to resist annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty."

These words are nothing new. They have been uttered time and again by the Democratic Progressive Party (Lai's political party) as well as Taiwan's former chief executives.

Declarations of this nature are typically met with mere verbal refutes from Beijing, nothing more. Not this time. The Chinese Communist Party took its reproach to the next level by responding with threatening propaganda and aggression.

Beijing circulated an animated cartoon depicting President Lai with pointed ears, as if a devil, with the map of Taiwan below him. Moments later, Lai's image disappears and the cartoon showed Chinese jets, warships and troops surrounding Taiwan. The 15-second video was an ominous warning.