Taipei, Nov. 14 -- Beijing's high-profile commemorations of Chinese revolutionary leader Sun Yat-sen are being viewed by Taiwanese academics as an attempt to strengthen its political influence in Taiwan and shape public opinion ahead of the island's local elections later this month. According to a report published by the Taipei Times, experts have warned that China could use historical narratives surrounding Sun to advance its political agenda and justify its claims over Taiwan.

The report noted that speaking at a seminar in Taipei organised by the Chinese Asia-Pacific Elite Exchange Association, Wu Se-chih, an associate professor at Taipei University of Marine Technology, said Beijing was using the commemorative events to create opportu...