[ LETTER ]

Today marks the 115th birthday of the Republic of China (ROC), while on Oct. 1, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) celebrated its 77th birthday.

From a historical and logical perspective, a 115-year-old nation could never be the “descendant” of a 77-year-old nation, let alone recognize a regime that is 38 years younger as its “motherland.”

If we insist on considering age and historical origins, it is actually the ROC that, historically, represents the shared memory of the people of the PRC over 77 years old.

We must not, simply because the word “motherland” easily evokes associations with bloodlines, ancestral origins or cultural roots, blindly accept this country, with a political system opposed to ours, as our motherland.

This year, I happen to be wishing my country a happy birthday as a soldier in military training.

This country can be called in many ways: It can be the ROC (Taiwan), the ROC, or simply Taiwan. Regardless of the name changes, the core fact remains: The ROC has been firmly rooted in Taiwan for 77 years. During this time, the values of democracy and freedom have become inextricably linked to the people of this land, perfectly integrated with their lives.

Through 115 years of democratic trials and tribulations, and 77 years of deep-rooted commitment, our nation has always been here.