Xi Jinping has issued a stark warning, declaring that China intends to incorporate Taiwan, a self-governing region, in a New Year’s Eve address. The Chinese President emphasized the deep familial ties between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and asserted that the reunification of the nation is an inevitable historical progression.
This declaration came after the People’s Liberation Army of China announced the successful conclusion of two days of military exercises near Taiwan, aiming to reinforce its control over the island and heightening tensions in East Asia. The PLA referred to the operation as “Justice Mission 2025,” stating that it thoroughly tested the joint operational capabilities of its troops.
Senior Captain Li Xi, spokesperson for the PLA’s Eastern Theatre Command, emphasized the troops’ continuous readiness, commitment to thwarting separatist movements, and protecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Taiwan’s President, Lai Ching-te, criticized the military drills but affirmed that Taiwan would act responsibly by avoiding escalation and provocation.
The issue of Taiwan has long been a sensitive topic for China within the global community. Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to reclaim it by force if necessary. The island split from mainland China in 1949 following a civil war, with the Nationalists retreating to Taiwan. Beijing regularly dispatches military assets near Taiwan’s vicinity, escalating exercises in recent years to assert its authority over the region.
The recent military maneuvers have been perceived as provocative by many, with China explicitly stating that they were intended to send a message to external entities potentially interfering with its governance of Taiwan. Additionally, in his New Year’s Eve address, Xi Jinping highlighted China’s advancements in various sectors, including military technology and space exploration, while emphasizing the importance of innovation for high-quality development.
Xi expressed gratitude to the Chinese populace for their contributions to the country’s economic growth and outlined plans for the upcoming five-year economic development strategy, set to be discussed during the March legislative session.