Tensions Rise as Chinese President Says Reunification of China and Taiwan Is Inevitable
In his New Year's Eve address, Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that the “reunification” of Taiwan with China was inevitable. This assertive stance precedes Taiwan's crucial 13 January elections, which will determine the island's cross-strait policy for the next four years.
The Chinese leader adopted a firmer tone than in the previous year, declaring that "China will surely be reunified." China has been increasing military pressure on Taiwan ahead of the upcoming elections, viewing the self-ruled island of 23 million as a breakaway province destined to be under Beijing's control after their separation in 1949.
As for Taiwan, President Tsai Ing-wen underscored that the island's relationship with China should be determined by the "will of the Taiwanese people'' in her New Year's address. She warned against Beijing's interference in the elections, expressing concerns about potential disruptions to the peaceful unification process.
Xi's televised New Year address did not explicitly mention military threats, but China has not ruled out the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control. With Taiwan holding presidential and parliamentary elections on 13 January, tensions between Beijing and Taipei are escalating.
Beijing labels the presidential front-runner, William Lai, as a "separatist," accusing him and President Tsai Ing-wen of provoking a potential conflict in the Taiwan Strait. The elections also feature candidates with differing stances on relations with China, setting the stage for a pivotal moment in cross-strait dynamics.
