In a New Year message to Taiwan compatriots, senior Chinese official Song Tao outlined the mainland's priorities for cross-strait relations in 2026, emphasizing peaceful development and national reunification. As head of both the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, Song's remarks carry significant weight in shaping cross-strait policy.
Dialogue Over Division
Song extended festive greetings to residents of the Taiwan region through the inaugural 2026 issue of Relations Across Taiwan Strait magazine, reaffirming adherence to the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus. The official stated Beijing's willingness to engage with political parties, civil groups, and individuals in Taiwan who support these foundational principles.
Red Lines and Reunification
While expressing commitment to peaceful reunification through dialogue, Song issued a firm warning against separatist activities: "We will never leave any room for 'Taiwan independence' in any form." The remarks come as Beijing prepares to implement updated policies for Taiwan affairs under the Party's framework for resolving the issue in the new era.
Economic and Cultural Bridges
Analysts suggest the message signals continued mainland support for cross-strait economic cooperation and people-to-people exchanges, while maintaining political red lines. The approach aims to foster mutual understanding between communities on both sides of the Taiwan Strait through practical collaboration.
