Chinese Ambassador Claims Taiwan Reunification is Imminent
Progress toward the long-standing objective of reunification between China and Taiwan has reportedly accelerated, according to statements made by Zhang Hanhui, the Chinese ambassador to Russia. This announcement aligns with recent comments from Chinese President Xi Jinping, who asserted that the reunification of Taiwan with the mainland is an inevitable outcome.
In an article published on a Russian news platform, Zhang criticized the United States for its involvement in Taiwan's affairs, insisting that the island is an integral part of Chinese territory. He emphasized that the reunification of Taiwan with China is a historical inevitability, even if the journey is fraught with challenges. Zhang dismissed the idea of 'Taiwan independence' as a misguided endeavor, reiterating a widely held belief in China that the nation's territory should remain unified and indivisible.
"China is closer than ever to realizing its goal of national rejuvenation," Zhang stated, expressing confidence in China's capabilities to achieve complete reunification with Taiwan.
Self-governance in Taiwan originated from nationalist forces that retreated to the island after their defeat in the Chinese Civil War in 1949. Currently, very few countries recognize Taiwan's sovereignty, with most nations, including Russia, acknowledging Beijing's stance that Taiwan is part of the People's Republic of China. While the United States officially maintains a One-China policy, which recognizes Taiwan as part of China, it continues to strengthen military ties with Taipei, a situation that has drawn criticism from Beijing.
In December, U.S. President Joe Biden approved a substantial military aid package for Taiwan, amounting to $571 million, which has further strained relations between Washington and Beijing. Taiwan, for its part, firmly rejects China's claims and asserts its right to self-determination. Under the leadership of President Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan has consistently opposed the 'One Country, Two Systems' model proposed by Beijing, which is viewed as a threat to its sovereignty.
In response to perceived aggression from China, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs frequently condemns Beijing's maneuvers as provocative actions that undermine regional stability. Recently, China conducted extensive military exercises in the vicinity of Taiwan, prompting concerns that Beijing might resort to military force to assert its claims.
Despite the prevailing tensions, Zhang reiterated that Beijing still prefers a peaceful resolution to the reunification issue, a sentiment echoed by President Xi Jinping in previous statements.
Moreover, Zhang held the United States accountable for escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait, accusing it of using Taiwan as a strategic tool to counter China's influence. He commended Russia's unwavering support for China's One-China principle, highlighting the strong strategic partnership between the two nations.
