Xi Jinping Vows Reunification with Taiwan Amid Military Display
HONG KONG — In a show of strength ahead of Communist China’s 75th anniversary, Chinese leader Xi Jinping reaffirmed his commitment to achieving “reunification” with Taiwan, sparking tensions between the two entities.
During a state banquet commemorating the founding of the People’s Republic, Xi emphasized the importance of complete reunification of the motherland, stating, “It’s an irreversible trend, a cause of righteousness and the common aspiration of the people. No one can stop the march of history.”
China’s ruling Communist Party has long sought to claim Taiwan as its own, despite never having control over the island. The ongoing dispute has led to increased aggression and rhetoric from Xi, fueling concerns of a potential military confrontation.
With both sides governed separately since 1949, tensions have escalated in recent months, with Taiwan’s Defense Ministry reporting heightened missile activity from the Chinese People’s Liberation Army. This comes after China’s rare public test of an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean, seen as a message to the US and its allies.
The issue of Taiwan has become a major point of contention between China and the US, leading President Joe Biden to approve a significant military support package for the island. The funding will cover defense articles and military education and training, further complicating the already strained relations in the region. — CNN
