Xi Vows Chinas Reunification with Taiwan Is Unstoppable

Taiwan’s President Pledges to Defend National Sovereignty Amid China’s Live-Fire Drills

Chinese President Xi Jinping has reaffirmed his commitment to achieving “reunification” with Taiwan, calling it an “unstoppable trend.” In a New Year’s address, Xi invoked the historical bond between Chinese people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. The address came after two days of live-fire drills simulating a blockade of the island, which officials described as a “stern warning” to separatist and external interference forces.

The war games, codenamed “Justice Mission 2025,” were the largest ever held around Taiwan in terms of geographical area. They took place just days after the United States approved its largest-ever arms package to Taiwan, valued at $11.1 billion. China views self-governing Taiwan as part of its territory and has long pledged to bring the island under its control.

Taiwan’s President William Lai Ching-te responded by pledging to “firmly” uphold national sovereignty and boost the island’s defenses. The international community is watching closely whether Taiwan can defend itself in the face of China’s expansionist ambitions. While Taiwan elects its leaders and has its own military, passport, and currency, it is officially recognized by only 11 countries and Vatican City.

China insists that countries do not officially recognize Taipei to maintain diplomatic ties with Beijing. The US does not officially recognize Taiwan but is committed to helping the island defend itself under the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979. Washington provides Taipei’s principal supplier of arms, but the law does not stipulate any obligation to directly intervene militarily.

Xi also highlighted China’s innovation in industries such as artificial intelligence and space, stating that breakthroughs have been achieved in research and development of its own chips.

Source: Al Jazeera