Xi Jinping announces reunification of Taiwan with China once again

"The people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family. No one can sever our family bonds, and no one can stop the historical trend of national reunification," Xi said in his New Year's address.

The agency reminded that in his New Year's speech last year, Xi stated that the reunification of China with Taiwan is inevitable. He added that people on both sides should be united by a common goal and share the glory of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

China-Taiwan confrontation

China considers the democratically governed Taiwan as part of its territory. However, Taipei rejects Beijing's claims and states that only its people can decide their future, and China must respect the choice of the Taiwanese people.

Tensions in the sensitive Taiwan Strait remained high throughout 2024, especially after Lai Ching-te became the new president of the island in May, a person whom Beijing considers a separatist.

Earlier this month, China conducted a large naval force buildup around Taiwan and also in the East and South China Seas. The maneuvers took place after Lai made stops in Hawaii and the US territory of Guam during a Pacific trip, which was heavily criticized by Beijing.

China, which has never ruled out the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, conducted two rounds of military exercises around the island last year. Beijing stated that these drills were a warning against separatist acts and promised to take further measures if necessary.

Xi Jinping has repeatedly stated that he considers Taiwan to be an inseparable part of China and has expressed his intention to reunite the island with the People's Republic of China. He has been the most aggressive in attempting to conquer and annex Taiwan through military means.

Taiwan's leader, Lai Ching-te, confirmed that China views the annexation and elimination of Taiwan's independence as a major national cause.