Zhang Zhijun, president of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS), has renewed calls for strengthened collaboration between compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait to advance national reunification. In his New Year message published on January 3, 2026, Zhang emphasized that cross-strait relations made significant progress in 2025, laying groundwork for what he described as 'the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.'
The ARATS leader highlighted efforts to counter separatist activities while expanding economic and cultural exchanges over the past year. He reaffirmed that Taiwan's development prospects are 'inseparable from national rejuvenation,' noting the mainland's upcoming implementation of its 15th Five-Year Plan will create new opportunities for cross-strait cooperation.
Zhang's message comes as the Chinese mainland prepares to accelerate its modernization drive in 2026, which ARATS claims will provide 'a robust foundation for peaceful reunification.' The organization has pledged to address practical concerns affecting Taiwan residents while maintaining opposition to what it characterizes as independence attempts.
