China’s government took a hardline stance on Wednesday, saying it “absolutely will not” rule out the use of force against Taiwan, even as it reiterated calls for peaceful “reunification.” The statement marks one of Beijing’s strongest public affirmations in recent months of its willingness to use military means to bring the self-governed island under its control. China views Taiwan as its own territory, while Taiwan maintains its own government and democratic political system.
Policy and Positioning
Peng Qing’en, spokesperson for China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, said Beijing remains committed to peaceful reunification under the “one country, two systems” framework but will “reserve the option to take all necessary measures.” The framework, used in Hong Kong and Macau, promises local autonomy under Chinese sovereignty an idea strongly rejected by Taiwan’s government and major political parties.
Taiwan’s Response
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te responded with defiance, telling military officers that the island must “demonstrate its resolve to defend its homeland” and “firmly oppose annexation.” Taiwan’s National Security Bureau chief, Tsai Ming-yen, dismissed Beijing’s “patriots” model as an attempt to “Hong Kong-ify” Taiwan, saying it has “no market” on the island.
Global Context
Beijing’s remarks come just a day before a planned meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea, where regional security including Taiwan may surface. Trump told reporters he was unsure if Taiwan would be discussed.
Why It Matters
The sharper tone from Beijing underscores its growing frustration with Taipei’s resistance to unification and the lack of political dialogue. It also comes amid heightened U.S.-China tensions, with Washington maintaining unofficial ties with Taiwan and increasing arms sales to the island.
With information from Reuters.
