Taiwan's Presidential Frontrunner Affirms No Name Change for the Island

Taiwan's leading presidential candidate, Vice President William Lai, stated in an interview that he has no plans to change Taiwan's formal name, the Republic of China. Lai emphasized that Taiwan is already an independent country and not subordinate to China. He expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with China if there is parity and dignity, but stressed the need to strengthen Taiwan's military capacity until China renounces the use of force. Lai's comments come as he campaigns for the upcoming presidential election in January, where he aims to succeed President Tsai Ing-wen, who is unable to run for a third term.