Fact Check: China accuses Taiwan's president of spreading 'heresy' over sovereignty.

Fact Check: "China accuses Taiwan's president of spreading 'heresy' over sovereignty."

What We Know

On June 22, 2025, Chinese authorities accused Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te of spreading "heresy" in relation to Taiwan's sovereignty during a speech where he asserted that Taiwan is "of course" a country, backed by historical and legal evidence (Reuters). The Chinese government, through its Taiwan Affairs Office, condemned Lai's statements as a distortion of history and an incitement of cross-strait tensions, labeling him a separatist (Reuters). This accusation aligns with China's longstanding position that Taiwan is a part of its territory, a claim that Taiwan's government vehemently rejects, emphasizing its status as an independent, sovereign nation (MOFA).

Analysis

The claim that China accused Taiwan's president of spreading "heresy" is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The Reuters article details the context of Lai's speech and China's response, confirming that the term "heresy" was indeed used by Chinese officials to describe Lai's assertions about Taiwan's sovereignty. This reflects the ongoing tensions between the two governments, with Taiwan asserting its independence and China maintaining its claim over the island.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Taiwan provides a strong rebuttal to China's claims, stating that Taiwan has never been governed by the People's Republic of China (PRC) and that its sovereignty is recognized internationally (MOFA). This source is reliable as it represents the official stance of the Taiwanese government and is consistent with Taiwan's democratic principles and international relations.

However, it is important to note that the term "heresy" used by China carries a significant ideological weight, reflecting the PRC's view of Taiwan's independence as not only politically incorrect but also as a challenge to its national integrity. The use of such language indicates the heightened sensitivity surrounding Taiwan's status and the potential for escalating tensions in the region.

Conclusion

The claim that China accused Taiwan's president of spreading "heresy" over sovereignty is True. The evidence from multiple reliable sources confirms that this accusation was made in response to President Lai's statements regarding Taiwan's status as a sovereign nation. The ongoing dispute over Taiwan's sovereignty remains a contentious issue, with both sides firmly entrenched in their positions.