Xi Jinping’s New Year speech warns Taiwan: “No one can stop China’s reunification”

China’s New Year threat to Taiwan

Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a speech strongly expressing the New Year’s resolution to pursue “reunification” with Taiwan. His remarks, televised on state broadcaster CCTV, underscored Beijing’s unyielding stance on the island, which is considered a breakaway province.

Xi’s warning to Taiwan

In his address, Xi stated, “The people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family. No one can sever our family bonds, and no one can stop the historical trend of national reunification.” The statement was a clear warning to Taiwan, home to 23 million people, as Beijing continues to assert its claim over the democratically governed island.

Beijing has long maintained that Taiwan is an integral part of China and frequently demonstrates its military might by sending warships and aircraft into the waters and airspace around the island.

Taiwan’s response

Taiwan firmly rejects China’s claims, with its government asserting that only the Taiwanese people have the right to determine their future. Taiwan’s leadership has consistently called on Beijing to respect the choices and sovereignty of its citizens.

Tensions with the United States

Xi’s speech comes amid heightened tensions between China and the United States, with Taiwan as a critical flashpoint. The US is Taiwan’s strategic ally in Asia and its largest supplier of weapons, a relationship that Beijing consistently criticizes.

China has warned the US against military ties with Taiwan and imposed sanctions on arms suppliers and their executives.

Escalating strains in 2024

Throughout 2024, tensions in the Taiwan Strait remained high, particularly after Lai Ching-te, labeled a “separatist” by Beijing, became Taiwan’s president in May. In December, China staged a significant naval buildup around Taiwan and the East and South China Seas after Lai made transit stops in Hawaii and Guam during a Pacific trip, moves that Beijing condemned.

Xi Jinping’s New Year address reflects China’s firm stance on Taiwan, raising concerns about escalating tensions in the region. As Taiwan continues to assert its democratic autonomy and strengthen ties with allies like the US, Beijing’s rhetoric and military actions are likely to keep the Taiwan Strait at the center of international attention.

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