Challenges facing Taiwan: Between Chinese threat and economic woes

The spectre of a Chinese invasion, the global situation, and finally, the economic crisis - these are the problems that the residents of Taiwan have to face every day.

A Polish journalist visited the famous flower market in Taipei (the capital of Taiwan) to talk live with the residents. While interviewing the local population, he did not shy away from difficult and uncomfortable questions.

The Fakt reporter asked how the possible alliance between the Chinese leader and Russia is perceived in Taiwan and whether the island's residents fear a conflict with the People's Republic of China.

Some openly complained about the divisions arising from the country's historical changes. They also emphasized that they knew war could break out at any moment.

The entire responsibility now falls on the new government to build better relations with China and avoid any ideological confrontation and escalation. - said one of the interviewees.

Among the younger generation, national distinctiveness became an essential aspect.

In Europe, you think that Taiwan is united with China. But for me and many young people, it's clear that we are Taiwanese and live in Taiwan. There may be some cultural ties, but we are two separate countries — explained a young woman living in the south of Taiwan in an interview with Fakt.

Most interviewees seemed to be following the situation in Ukraine, but some opinions about the situation in Eastern Europe may seem surprising. One florist believes that an alliance with Putin is not evil and that the situation between China and Taiwan results from U.S. propaganda efforts.

There is some form of democracy in Russia, not like in North Korea - said with conviction.