Xi: China’s “complete reunification” with Taiwan will certainly be realised
Chinese President Xi Jinping called for peaceful reunification with Taiwan in a Beijing speech on Thursday and made no mention of force. Taipei rejected his "one country, two systems" offer and said his wording had barely changed.
Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday that "the tide of history cannot be stopped" as he urged peaceful "reunification" with Taiwan. He spoke at Beijing's Great Hall of the People. Xi called resolving the Taiwan question an "unwavering historical mission" of China's Communist Party. "The complete reunification of the motherland must be realised, and it will certainly be realised," he said. The speech marked the 160th birthday of revolutionary hero Sun Yat-sen. Sun helped lead a 1911 revolt that ended imperial rule and ushered in the Republic of China. Xi said China adheres to "peaceful reunification and the policy of 'one country, two systems'". He said Beijing is willing to talk to Taiwan while upholding the "one-China principle". He also called on all Chinese, including people in Taiwan, to oppose "separatist" independence forces. Xi made no mention of force. China has never renounced its use against Taiwan. Its military operates around the island every day, Daily Maverick and Al Jazeera reported. Taiwan's defence ministry said it detected 29 Chinese military aircraft, including J-16 fighter jets and drones, on a "joint combat readiness patrol" with Chinese warships starting on Thursday. Taipei was quick to reject the offer. Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council said neither the government nor the people…
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