Musk’s proposal for China-Taiwan relations gets slammed: Our freedom is ‘not for sale’

Elon Musk waded into geopolitics once more suggesting an arrangement whereby Taiwan becomes a “special administrative zone” of China, with Beijing likely having some control over the self-ruled island. That suggestion has drawn the ire of Taiwanese politicians. Taiwan’s government has previously rejected such a proposal.

Taiwanese politicians aren't impressed by Musk's comments on China- Taiwan relations.

The billionaire suggested an arrangement whereby China would have some control over Taiwan, but the country's de-facto ambassador to the U.S. said that the island's "freedom and democracy are not for sale."

Taiwan needs to be reunified with the mainland, according to Beijing. China has the ability to use force.

In an interview with the Financial Times published Saturday, Musk said his recommendation would be to figure out a special administrative zone for Taiwan.

It is possible that they could have an arrangement that is less strict than Hong Kong.

Since it was handed over from Britain in 1997, Hong Kong has been run by China. Under Beijing's rule, the city has been allowed to become a semi-autonomous region.

Critics argue that the national security law in Hong Kong has eroded some of the freedom promised under the one country, two systems arrangement.

Beijing appreciated Musk's suggestion, but Taiwan didn't like it.

China's ambassador to the U.S. thanked Musk for suggesting a special administrative zone for Taiwan.

The basic principles for resolving the Taiwan question are peaceful reunification and One Country, Two Systems.

The ambassador said that Taiwan will enjoy a high degree of independence as a special administrative region.

Taiwan has refused to accept a one country, two systems arrangement many times.

Hsiao said that any proposal for Taiwan's future must be respectful of the democratic wishes of the people of Taiwan.

The National Day Address was delivered by the Taiwan President. She talked about relations with China.

I want the Beijing authorities to know that armed confrontation is not an option for us. According to an official transcript of her speech, Tsai said, "Only by respecting the commitment of the Taiwanese people to our sovereignty, democracy, and freedom, can there be a foundation for resumed constructive interaction across the Taiwan Strait."

We are willing to work with Beijing to find a mutually agreeable arrangement if there is rationality, equality, and mutual respect. This is our responsibilities.

When it comes to wading into politics, Musk has a lot of experience.

Last week, the billionaire drew the ire of Ukrainian politicians after posting a poll on the internet about the outcome of the war with Russia.

China is one of the most critical markets for the company and Musk has been very complimentary of the country.

Musk's proposal on Taiwan "deserves a great deal of unpacking and maybe even a bit of a reality check" according to one China analyst.

The only problem with this for Mr Musk is that the people of Taiwan don't agree with that type of arrangement.

Musk might want to take a closer look at issues such as the relationship between China and Taiwan.

The world's wealthiest man feels he has a lot to say on these issues. Gill said that he would only suggest that he take a harder look at the realities before giving us a lesson in diplomacy.