In exactly two weeks in Taiwan, on January 13, 2024, voters will choose their new president and their deputies. A crucial election for this democratic archipelago claimed by Beijing. Competing for the presidency, three candidates have just faced each other during a televised debate. At the heart of the exchanges, the relationship with China.
1 min
with our correspondent in Taipei, Adrien Simorre
On the question of the relationship with the Chinese neighbor, the discussions were quite tense. It was ruling party candidate William Lai who attacked first. As soon as he spoke, he attacked his main opponent from the Chinese Nationalist Party. “ You are pro-Chinahe said, if you are elected, all our efforts to strengthen our national defense will be in vain ! »
The latter responded, accusing William Lai of supporting Taiwan’s independence. “ It is because of this position that Taiwan is today considered the most dangerous place in the world”he criticized.
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Third in the polls, Ko Wen-je, the surprise of the election, tried to bring the debate back to domestic questions: housing prices or low wages, themes which worry young voters. “ You have been wasting our time on the same subject for thirty years. This year we finally have the opportunity to knock you both down “.
The ruling party candidate finished by damning his two opponents: “ You blame us for the tensions when the only one responsible is China, we need to be united to avoid war ! »
It remains to be seen the impact of the debate on the polls.
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