Taiwan concert clash reveals divisions over China’s outreach

Police are looking for a final suspect involved in clashes at a Chinese-organized concert in Taipei between Taiwanese pro-independence protesters and Beijing supporters that revealed divisions over China’s influence on the self-ruled island. (Photo by Carrie Kellenberger/Flickr, CC BY 2.0)

TAIPEI, Taiwan — Police are looking for a final suspect involved in clashes at a Chinese-organized concert in Taipei between Taiwanese pro-independence protesters and Beijing supporters that revealed divisions over China’s influence on the self-ruled island.

Beijing insists that Taiwan and the Chinese mainland are part of a single Chinese nation and has vowed to take control of the island by force if necessary. China has been stepping up pressure on Taiwan’s government over President Tsai Ing-wen’s refusal to endorse Beijing’s view that both sides belong to “one China.”

Officials say more than 30 people stormed the Sing! China Music Festival stage Sept. 24 at National Taiwan University.

Ties have frayed over Chinese military movements near Taiwan, slowing tourism to the island and the trial of a Taiwanese activist in China.