37th Anniversary of June 4th: Liang Wenjie States Cross-Strait Democracy and Authoritarianism Are Incompatible

(Central News Agency reporter Li Ya-wen, Taipei, June 4) The June 4th incident marks its 37th anniversary. Liang Wenjie, Vice Chairperson and Spokesperson of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), called on Beijing to confront the truth of the June 4th incident. He stated that the fundamental issue between the two sides lies in the irreconcilable nature of democracy and authoritarianism, and expressed hope that Beijing will respect the Taiwanese people's commitment to a democratic and free system.

The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) held its regular press conference on the afternoon of the 4th, chaired by Liang Wenjie.

Liang Wenjie noted that today marks the 37th anniversary of the June 4th incident. At that time, Taiwan was just beginning its wave of democratization, progressing steadily toward today's diverse and open society. In contrast, the June 4th incident erupted across the strait, after which space for freedom was comprehensively restricted. Over the past 30-plus years, this development has created fundamental differences between the two sides in terms of systems, ideologies, and values.

'We once again urge the Beijing authorities to face the truth of the June 4th incident and restore freedom to the people,' Liang Wenjie said. He pointed out that while the other side often claims that 'differences in systems are not obstacles to unification,' the most fundamental problem between the two sides is precisely the incompatibility between democracy and authoritarianism.

Former President Ma Ying-jeou once stated, 'Without redress for June 4th, there can be no talk of unification.' Liang emphasized that this was true then and remains true today.

He expressed hope that Beijing will respect the Taiwanese people's adherence to a democratic and free system. Rather than resorting to military threats and propaganda attacks, Beijing should seriously reflect on its choices regarding systems and values. Taiwan, as a beacon of Chinese democracy, offers the best reference model. Everyone and every political party in Taiwan should cherish this hard-won way of life all the more, as this is a non-negotiable bottom line. (Editor: Yang Sheng-ru) 1150604