Taiwan leader says armed conflict in Beijing is ‘absolutely not an option’

TAIPEI—Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen described Beijing’s slashing as counterproductive in a provocative speech, saying his government was willing to work with China to reduce tensions but would not compromise its commitment to freedom and democracy.

Delivering a National Day speech on Monday, Ms Tsai pledged to strengthen the island’s resilience in the face of mounting pressure from the Chinese Communist Party, in part by deepening ties with democratic countries and strengthening its vital role in the global technology supply chain.