Chinese ambassador says Taiwan reunification 'closer than ever'

Beijing has the capability to accomplish "the complete reunification" of China, according to Zhang Hanhui. Read the full article at RT.com.

Chinese ambassador says Taiwan reunification 'closer than ever'
Zhang Hanhui, Beijing’s ambassador to Russia, asserts that China is making notable progress towards its longstanding objective of achieving reunification with Taiwan, its self-governed region. This statement follows a declaration by Chinese President Xi Jinping, who termed reunification as inevitable.

In an opinion piece published on Friday for RIA Novosti, Zhang criticized Washington's involvement in Taiwan's affairs, reiterating Beijing's position that the island is part of its sovereign territory.

“Reunification is a historical trend and the right path, albeit one that involves hardships. ‘Taiwan independence’ is… a path doomed to failure. The Chinese nation has always adhered to the common belief that territory cannot be divided... the nation cannot be fragmented,” he stated.

He further emphasized that “China is closer than ever in its history to achieving the goal of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.”

Zhang noted that Beijing is “full of confidence and possesses the strength to achieve... the complete reunification of the country.”

Taiwan has functioned under self-rule since nationalist forces established control after their defeat in the Chinese Civil War in 1949. Very few countries recognize the island’s sovereignty, with a majority, including Russia, acknowledging Beijing's claim that it is part of the People’s Republic.

Although the U.S. officially subscribes to the One-China policy, recognizing Taiwan as part of China, it also engages in military cooperation with Taipei’s government, leading to discontent in Beijing.

Recently, U.S. President Joe Biden authorized $571 million in defense support for Taiwan.

Taiwan firmly rejects Beijing’s claims and maintains its sovereignty. Under President Tsai Ing-wen, it has consistently opposed China's “One Country, Two Systems” framework, with its Ministry of Foreign Affairs frequently condemning Beijing's actions as provocative and harmful to regional stability.

China conducted extensive military exercises around Taiwan in October, while Taipei asserts that Beijing will never “renounce the use of force” against the island.

Nevertheless, Zhang reiterated Beijing's preference for peaceful reunification, echoing sentiments previously shared by President Xi Jinping.

Zhang also accused the United States of using Taipei as a means to contain China, attributing rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait to Washington's actions. He acknowledged Russia’s ongoing support for Beijing's "One China" policy, highlighting the strong strategic partnership between the two nations.

Sophie Wagner for TROIB News