China has reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful reunification with the Taiwan region, emphasizing its consistent stance despite concerns from some Western observers. Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated on Thursday during the annual session of the National People’s Congress, “We will continue to strive for peaceful reunification with the greatest sincerity.”
Some Western media outlets have suggested that China has adopted a tougher approach towards the Taiwan region, citing the government’s work report and the rise in the country’s military budget. According to Reuters, the report released on Tuesday omitted previous mentions of “peaceful reunification,” leading to speculations about a shift in policy.
However, experts assert that China’s policy remains unchanged. Li Nan, a visiting senior research fellow at the East Asian Institute of the National University of Singapore, believes that the language in the government work report indicates continuity in China’s approach, with a focus on deterrence to maintain stability.
“The mainland is unwilling to see a war breaking out in the region,” Li said. “China continues to prioritize peaceful means in addressing the Taiwan question, and any suggestions of increased aggression are unfounded.”
Tensions in the Taiwan Strait have escalated in recent years, but Chinese officials attribute this to pro-independence forces in the region rather than any aggressive intentions from the mainland. The Chinese government maintains that resolving the Taiwan question is a matter of national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
As China concludes its Two Sessions, the message to the international community is clear: China is committed to peaceful development and seeks to maintain harmony across the Taiwan Strait. By upholding a consistent policy, China aims to deter separatist movements while promoting peaceful reunification for the benefit of all Chinese people.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
