Xi Says China–Taiwan Reunification Is Unstoppable
Chinese President Xi Jinping said that reunification with Taiwan is “unstoppable,” reaffirming Beijing’s long standing position on the issue in his New Year address. Xi said people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait share deep historical and cultural ties, and described reunification as a natural course of history. China considers Taiwan part of its territory under the One China principle, a claim that Taiwan rejects.
Remarks come amid rising cross-strait tensions
Xi’s comments were made against the backdrop of heightened tensions between China and Taiwan. In recent days, China has conducted large scale military drills around Taiwan, involving naval vessels and aircraft operating close to the island. Taiwanese authorities have described these activities as coercive and destabilising, while China has maintained that such exercises are aimed at safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Taiwan rejects Beijing’s claims
Taiwan’s government has repeatedly stated that the island is a self governed democracy and that its future can only be decided by its people. Taiwanese leaders have pledged to strengthen defence preparedness and protect democratic institutions in response to growing pressure from Beijing. Officials in Taipei have also called for dialogue but insist that any engagement must be based on equality and respect.
Wider international implications
China’s firm language on Taiwan continues to draw attention from regional and global powers. Several countries have urged restraint and warned against actions that could escalate tensions in the Taiwan Strait. The issue remains one of the most sensitive flashpoints in the Asia Pacific, with significant implications for regional security and global geopolitics.
