President Xi Jinping emphasized in his New Year’s address that the reunification of China and Taiwan is an inevitable historical development.
His statement, differing in tone from the previous year, arrives amid the upcoming elections in Taiwan and escalating tensions between Beijing and Taipei. The elections, scheduled for January 13, coincide with a period of strained relations, marked by increased military pressure from China in asserting its claims over Taiwan.
China views Taiwan as an integral part of its territory and has consistently maintained the option of using force to assert control, although Xi’s speech did not explicitly reference military actions in this context as broadcasted on state television.
Xi urged a shared sense of purpose among individuals on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, emphasizing a collective contribution to the revitalization of the Chinese nation. He underscored the historical context of China’s reunification, expressing a vision of unity.
Additionally, China’s Taiwan Affairs Office criticized Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Party (DPP) presidential candidate, Vice President Lai Ching-te, labeling him as a proponent of separatism and a disruptor of peace in the region. This criticism follows Lai’s comments during a televised debate, prompting China to denounce his stance and accuse the DPP-led government of promoting separatism since President Tsai Ing-wen assumed office in 2016.
The political landscape in Taiwan remains divided, with different parties advocating varying stances toward China. While both Tsai and Lai have expressed willingness for dialogue with China, they have faced rejection. The Democratic Party insists on Taiwan’s right to determine its own future, a sentiment echoed by Lai’s main opponent, Hou Yu-ih from the Kuomintang (KMT), Taiwan’s largest opposition party.
The Kuomintang traditionally leans towards closer relations with China but refutes allegations of being pro-Beijing. Hou has also criticized Lai for advocating independence.
The historical context between the Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China remains a point of contention. Lai’s recent statement regarding the relationship between the two entities has drawn ire from Beijing, adding to the ongoing tensions.
