A spokesperson for mainland China has condemned the recent ban imposed by Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) on AI models developed by the mainland-based company DeepSeek. Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, labeled the move as “absurd,” asserting that it reflects anti-intellectual measures aimed at furthering an anti-mainland agenda.
Zhu’s remarks came in response to media inquiries regarding the DPP’s blanket ban on the use of DeepSeek AI models in government agencies and public schools. She criticized the DPP for exhibiting fear and hostility towards the mainland and its high-tech products. Zhu emphasized that such arbitrary bans, justified under the guise of safeguarding security, would ultimately harm both businesses and the public on the island.
In her statement, Zhu extended an invitation to Taiwan residents, encouraging them to utilize AI models developed by mainland enterprises. She expressed support for cross-Strait cooperation in the AI sector, highlighting the potential benefits of collaboration between the two regions.
Zhu also addressed recent claims made by Lai Ching-te, Taiwan’s Vice Premier, regarding a rise in mainland espionage cases and intensified “united front” efforts against Taiwan. She accused the DPP of fabricating a “mainland threat” narrative and portraying cross-Strait exchanges as a significant danger, which she argued serves the DPP’s separatist agenda.
“This is the fundamental logic behind Lai and the DPP authorities’ continuous deception and fearmongering, which escalate cross-Strait tensions,” Zhu stated.
In response to a report from Taiwan’s mainland affairs council, which contained what Zhu described as distorted information about the mainland, she reiterated that Taiwan residents are warmly welcomed to visit. She expressed confidence that firsthand experiences would dispel the rumors propagated by the DPP.
“Once Taiwan compatriots see and feel the mainland in person, the fabricated rumors will surely collapse,” she concluded.
This exchange highlights the ongoing tensions between the mainland and Taiwan, particularly in the context of technological advancements and national security concerns.
