Taiwan president faces renewed pressure over cross-strait relations

FILE - Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te delivers an acceptance speech during his inauguration ceremony in Taipei, Taiwan, May 20, 2024. FILE - Supporters of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party gather and push a ball reading ''Reject China's Interference In Politics'' outside the legislative building in Taipei, Taiwan, May 28, 2024.

China initiated a new wave of influence campaigns against Taiwan over the past few days, as its top official overseeing Taiwan affairs reiterated Beijing’s “resolve and ability to shatter” the island’s attempt to seek independence while promising to welcome more Taiwanese people to participate in cross-strait exchanges.