Ayush Kumar Jaiswal
Robert Tsao, the founder of Taiwan’s United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC), has publicly criticized China’s United Front tactics, accusing Beijing of undermining Taiwan’s sovereignty, Taiwan News reported. Speaking at a press conference, Tsao highlighted how China’s approach to cross-strait relations is a coercive strategy designed to erode Taiwan’s independence under the guise of friendly exchanges.
“There is no such thing as a genuine cross-strait exchange under China’s United Front operations,” Tsao stated. He emphasized that true dialogue requires the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to respect Taiwan’s sovereignty, without which interactions are merely attempts to weaken the island’s autonomy. Tsao warned that these tactics are disguised political maneuvers aimed at controlling and influencing Taiwan.
Tsao further explained the United Front strategy, describing it as a calculated effort where secondary adversaries are used to weaken primary targets. Once the main objective is neutralized, focus shifts to secondary targets, perpetuating instability. “Once the primary target is taken down, the secondary targets become the next focus, perpetuating a cycle of conflict,” he said, adding that Taiwan remains a persistent target of these operations.
He also criticized China’s unilateral constitutional amendments that claim Taiwan as part of its territory. Tsao expressed concern over how some Taiwanese are swayed by propaganda promoting “the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,” which undermines the recognition of Taiwan’s sovereignty. Comparing this rhetoric to a virus attacking an immune system, he warned of its potential to weaken and destroy Taiwan’s self-governance.
As a vocal critic of Beijing’s policies, Tsao advocated a firm stance of “no contact, no negotiations, no compromise” when dealing with China. His strong opposition led to sanctions by the CCP in October 2024 due to his ties to Kuma Academy. Beijing accused Tsao of inciting separatism and destabilizing cross-strait relations.
Tsao’s commitment to defending Taiwan includes significant financial pledges. He has donated NTD 600 million (USD 18.27 million) to train civilians in combat and first aid, as well as NTD 400 million to train 300,000 snipers as a deterrent against a potential Chinese invasion. His proactive measures and steadfast stance underscore his dedication to safeguarding Taiwan’s sovereignty and independence
