Australia has labelled Taiwan’s smooth election process a testament to the “maturity and strength” of its democracy, as the pro-sovereignty Democratic Progressive Party is given a historic third term by voters.
The federal government on Sunday congratulated Dr Lai Ching-te on his victory and the people of Taiwan on the peaceful exercise of their democratic rights.
“The smooth conduct of the elections is a testament to the maturity and strength of Taiwan’s democracy,” a Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesman said.
“Australia looks forward to continuing to work with Taiwan to advance our important trade and investment relationship, as well as our deep and longstanding educational, scientific, cultural and people-to-people ties.”
In a result that is expected to anger Beijing and heighten tensions, China reaffirmed its commitment to reunification.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton congratulated the incoming president who would lead during a “troubling time”.
“It’s important that democracies are able to implement the outcome of the will of the people and that’s what’s happened in Taiwan, and we welcome that outcome,” he told reporters in Melbourne.
In a thinly veiled swipe at Beijing, opposition foreign affairs spokesman Simon Birmingham spoke out against retaliation.
“All parties should respect the democratic will expressed by the Taiwanese people and act in ways that support peace and stability,” he said.
“There is no justification for any escalation in military activities or acts that risk instability, miscalculation or misadventure.”
