Xi Jinping’s Vision for China-Taiwan Reunification Takes Center Stage

During his New Year’s Eve address in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated his commitment to the reunification of China and Taiwan, emphasizing that this goal is an “unstoppable” trend. His speech follows intense military drills conducted by China near Taiwan, stirring international concerns regarding potential military actions.

Military Drills and Rising Tensions

Just days before Xi’s speech, the People’s Liberation Army conducted live-fire exercises in the waters surrounding Taiwan. These drills, dubbed “Justice Mission 2025,” simulated a blockade of Taiwan’s main ports and involved significant resources, including a naval, air force, and coast guard presence that encircled the island. Over the two days, approximately 200 warplanes participated, marking the highest activity in more than a year. In addition, Taiwan reported that 27 missiles were launched, with some landing alarmingly close to its shores—within 27 nautical miles.

Even after the conclusion of the drills, Taiwan remained vigilant, observing 25 Chinese naval and coast guard vessels in the vicinity, along with surveillance balloons traversing its northern coastline. Analysts noted that these military activities correlated with recent significant arms sales approval from the United States to Taiwan valued at a historic $11 billion.

Commitment to Global Diplomacy

While pursuing military readiness, Xi also conveyed a message of openness to the world during his speech, highlighting China’s role in various multilateral conferences held throughout the year. Notably, he mentioned a significant meeting in Tianjin that hosted global leaders, including those from Russia, India, and Turkey.

The state media broadcast of Xi’s address integrated visuals of a grand military parade held in September to commemorate the 80th anniversary of World War II’s conclusion in the region. The parade showcased military strength and featured Xi alongside leaders like Putin and Kim Jong-un, symbolizing a collaborative geopolitical stance often cited as the “axis of upheaval.”

The One-China Principle

Central to Xi’s narrative is the annexation of Taiwan and garnering international recognition of Taiwan as part of the “One China” policy, which is predominantly rejected by the Taiwanese populace. In response to the military drills, several governments—including those of the UK, Japan, and Australia—expressed their concerns, prompting China’s foreign ministry to issue a strong protest. The ministry contended that such foreign criticisms disregard the established consensus that sees Taiwan as part of China.

Historical Reflections and Current Political Climate

Xi’s speech also paid homage to “Taiwan Retrocession Day,” a commemoration enacted by Taiwan to recognize the end of Japanese imperial control in 1945, a date now celebrated as a national holiday in Taiwan. The complex legacies of World War II have been focal points in the political discourse of both China and Taiwan this year, with Taiwan’s president, Lai Ching-te, framing the current situation in terms reminiscent of European democracies facing threats in the 1930s.

On New Year’s Day, Lai reiterated the necessity of protecting Taiwan’s sovereignty and called on opposing political factions to support increased defense funding against the backdrop of China’s growing military ambitions. “In light of China’s alarming expansion, Taiwan cannot afford to dwell on internal divisions,” he stressed.

Technological Advancements and Economic Goals

In addition to political and military themes, Xi’s speech celebrated China’s advancements in technology, spotlighting innovations such as kickboxing robots and the Tianwen-2 comet exploration mission launched in May. He asserted that China remains on course to achieve its 5% GDP growth target, reinforcing confidence in the nation’s economic future.

Conclusion

As Xi Jinping paints a picture of firm resolve regarding Taiwan, the interplay between military exercises, international diplomacy, and historical narratives underscores a complex geopolitical landscape ahead. The dialogues surrounding Taiwan’s status and China’s military ambitions continue to evoke global scrutiny and necessitate ongoing conversations about peace and stability in the region.