The Republic of China (Taiwan) marked its 113th National Day on Thursday with a series of vibrant events both across the country and in various international locations. This annual celebration, also known as Double Tenth Day, is a significant occasion for Taiwanese people, symbolizing both national pride and the enduring spirit of independence. Citizens and expatriates alike participated in various activities, from patriotic parades and cultural exhibitions to fireworks displays and diplomatic gatherings abroad.

The centerpiece of the celebrations took place in front of the iconic Presidential Office building in Taipei. Adorned with flags and flowers, the historic site served as the focal point for the day's official events. Thousands of people, including government officials, foreign dignitaries, and local citizens, gathered to witness the grand ceremony.

The event began with an awe-inspiring flyover by the Brave Eagle squad, Taiwan's indigenous advanced jet trainers. The jets soared above the Presidential Office building, leaving colorful trails in the sky, symbolizing the strength and resilience of Taiwan's defense forces. This impressive display of aerial precision was a highlight of the celebration, evoking pride among the audience and showcasing Taiwan's military capabilities amid the island's ongoing efforts to safeguard its sovereignty. The flyover performance was followed by speeches from key political leaders, cultural performances, and a ceremonial raising of the national flag.

Taiwan's President, Lai Ching-te, has reaffirmed his commitment to defending Taiwan's sovereignty, declaring his vow to "resist annexation" as China intensifies its political and military pressure on the island. Lai’s remarks came during Taiwan's National Day celebrations, held on Thursday, October 10, 2024. This occasion marked the 113th anniversary of the Republic of China's founding, a nation that retreated to Taiwan in 1949 following the Chinese civil war.

Taiwan's Historic National Day
The National Day celebration, also known as Double Tenth Day, commemorates the 1911 Wuchang Uprising, which led to the collapse of the Qing Dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China. After the defeat of the Nationalists by Mao Zedong’s Communists in 1949, the Republic of China government relocated to Taiwan, where it remained, evolving into a full democracy in the 1980s and 1990s. Despite this, Taiwan still holds the original constitution and the flag of the Republic of China.

President Lai, who took office in May 2024, follows the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) long-standing policy of rejecting China's demand to recognize Taiwan as part of Chinese territory. This stance has kept relations between Taipei and Beijing on edge, with China continuing to assert its claims over Taiwan while not ruling out the possibility of using force.

"Resist Annexation" – Lai's Strong Stance
Standing under grey skies in front of the Presidential Office in Taipei, Lai addressed the nation, saying, "I will uphold our commitment to resist any annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty." His strong stance is a direct response to China's ongoing efforts to push for Taiwan’s unification with the mainland. The Chinese government has ramped up diplomatic and military pressure on Taiwan, accusing Lai of escalating tensions and labeling him a "separatist" leader.

Lai has been more vocal about Taiwan’s independence compared to his predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen, which has further irked Beijing. Earlier in the week, Beijing criticized Lai for his "malicious intent" following his comments that China was not Taiwan’s "motherland." Despite this, Lai is expected to maintain a balance between projecting firm sovereignty and promoting pragmatism to ensure stable governance amid mounting external pressures.

U.S. Support and Diplomatic Ties
Although the United States officially shifted diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979, it remains Taiwan’s strongest international supporter and largest arms supplier. The U.S. continues to oppose Taiwan's formal independence but also rejects any attempts by China to forcibly seize the island. During Taiwan's National Day, senior U.S. officials, including members of Congress, were present at the celebrations, alongside representatives from the dozen nations that still maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

A senior U.S. official indicated earlier in the week that China might use Taiwan's National Day as a pretext for conducting military exercises in the region. Beijing has often employed military maneuvers to remind Taiwan of its presence, with recent months seeing increased military activity in the Taiwan Strait.

Historical Context of the Dispute
The modern-day conflict between Taiwan and China stems from the Chinese Civil War (1927–1949), in which the Nationalists, led by Chiang Kai-shek, fled to Taiwan after being defeated by Mao Zedong’s Communist forces. Since then, Taiwan has maintained de facto independence, even though China claims it as a breakaway province.

Taiwan’s National Day is both a celebration of its distinct history and a reminder of the ongoing struggle to maintain its sovereignty in the face of China's ambitions. As Taiwan looks to the future, President Lai’s message of resistance and sovereignty echoes louder than ever, signaling a continuing chapter of defiance against external pressure.

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