President Xi Jinping’s recent New Year’s address has sparked discussions about the future relationship between China and Taiwan. With less than two weeks until Taiwan’s presidential and parliamentary elections, tensions between Beijing and Taipei have escalated. China has been increasing its military pressure to assert its sovereignty claims over Taiwan, considering it to be its “sacred territory.” This article will examine the possibility of reunification between China and Taiwan, as well as the challenges that lie ahead.
In his address, President Xi Jinping struck a stronger tone compared to previous years, asserting that the “reunification of the motherland” is a historical inevitability. However, the official English translation provided a more straightforward phrase, stating that “China will surely be reunified.” President Xi emphasized the importance of a common sense of purpose and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. This language reflects China’s steadfast claim to Taiwan and its aspiration to unify the two regions.
Taiwan’s upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections on January 13 are happening amidst strained relations between Beijing and Taipei. Vice President Lai Ching-te, the presidential candidate from Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Party (DPP), has been a target of China’s criticism. The Chinese-Taiwan Affairs Office accused Lai of being a dangerous separatist, exposing his true face as a stubborn advocate for Taiwan independence. China sees the DPP-led government as promoting separatism since President Tsai Ing-wen took office.
The issue of reunification faces significant challenges, primarily due to Taiwan’s determination to assert its own sovereignty. Both President Tsai Ing-wen and Vice President Lai Ching-te have expressed their willingness to engage in talks with China. However, these offers have been repeatedly rebuffed. The DPP, along with its main opponent in the election, Hou Yu-ih from the Kuomintang (KMT), firmly believes that only the Taiwanese people should decide their future. While the KMT traditionally pursued closer ties with China, it strongly denies being pro-Beijing and has criticized Lai as an independence supporter.
To understand the complex relationship between China and Taiwan, it is essential to delve into the historical context. Following the Chinese civil war in 1949, the defeated Republic of China government fled to Taiwan while the communists, led by Mao Zedong, established the People’s Republic of China. As a result, the Republic of China remains Taiwan’s formal name. Lai’s recent comments emphasized that the Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China “are not subordinate to each other,” further fueling tensions between the two regions.
The possibility of reunification between China and Taiwan remains a contentious issue. President Xi Jinping’s statement that it is an “inevitability” reflects China’s unwavering commitment to asserting control over Taiwan. However, Taiwan’s determination to maintain its own sovereignty and the historical context of the two regions pose significant challenges. Both sides must find a way to engage in meaningful dialogue to address their differences and strive for peaceful coexistence. The outcome of Taiwan’s presidential and parliamentary elections will undoubtedly impact the future direction of the China-Taiwan relationship.