China‘s Top Taiwan Official Calls for Unity in New Year’s Message
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Song Tao, director of China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, issued a New Year’s message expressing hopes for closer ties between mainland China and Taiwan. the message, published in the first 2025 issue of “Cross-Strait Relations” magazine, emphasized the shared heritage and inevitable reunification of the two sides.
In his message, titled “Working Together and working Together,” Song Tao conveyed New Year’s greetings to all Taiwanese citizens. He referenced President Xi Jinping’s own New Year’s address, quoting Xi’s powerful statement: “Compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan strait are one family. No one can cut off our blood and family ties, and no one can stop the history of the reunification of the motherland’s general trend.”
Song Tao highlighted the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China’s founding in 2024 and the progress made under Xi Jinping’s leadership. He stated that China’s economic reforms and modernization efforts have garnered global attention, setting the stage for continued progress in cross-strait relations.
He emphasized China’s commitment to expanding cross-strait exchanges and improving the lives of Taiwanese citizens. “The Chinese nation and Chinese culture have become the main theme of cross-strait exchanges, and ‘we are all Chinese’ and ’being upright Chinese’ have become the deepest voices of Taiwan compatriots,” Song Tao asserted. He further stated that ”the history, culture, and blood ties of the two sides are naturally related to each other, and they are a family that shares weal and woe. No one can continue to separate and change.”
Song Tao outlined China’s plans for 2025, stating that they will ”adhere to the guidance of Xi Jinping thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, fully implement the spirit of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China and the Second and third Plenary Sessions of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, and thoroughly implement the Party’s new era resolution of the Taiwan issue.” he reiterated China’s commitment to the “1992 Consensus” and opposition to ”Taiwan independence.”
Looking ahead to the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the liberation of Taiwan in 2025, song tao concluded with a call for unity: “Compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Straits must work together as one, uphold national justice, shoulder historical responsibilities, and work together to achieve the great rejuvenation of the nation and the complete reunification of the motherland and work tirelessly.” He added, “As long as compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait work together and work hard, they will surely be able to complete the great cause of motherland reunification and jointly create a luminous future for national rejuvenation.”
China’s Top Taiwan Official Calls for Reunification in New year’s Message
In a new Year’s message published in “Cross-Strait Relations” magazine, Song Tao, director of China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, emphasized the shared heritage and the inevitability of reunification between mainland china and Taiwan. This message comes amidst ongoing tensions and complex geopolitical dynamics in the Taiwan Strait.
Senior Editor: Dr. Wang, Song Tao’s New Year’s message clearly emphasizes a shared heritage and the inevitability of reunification. How should we understand these themes within the context of current cross-strait relations?
Dr. Jian Wang: Song Tao’s message reflects a long-standing view within the Chinese Communist Party that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China,both historically and culturally. This perspective is deeply ingrained in their national narrative. emphasis on “inevitability” suggests a belief that reunification is not simply a desirable outcome but a historical certainty.
Xi Jinping’s Influence and the “Taiwan Issue”
Senior Editor: Song Tao’s statement echoes sentiments expressed by President Xi Jinping. Could you elaborate on the influence of xi’s leadership on this issue?
Dr. Jian Wang: Xi Jinping has taken a strong stance on the “Taiwan issue,” incorporating it as a central theme in his ideology. His calls for reunification have become more forceful in recent years, and his administration has stepped up military activities near Taiwan. Song Tao’s message clearly reflects this assertive approach.
The “1992 Consensus” and Objections to “Taiwan Independence”
Senior Editor: The message also reaffirms the “1992 Consensus” and opposes “Taiwan independence.” What’s the significance of these references?
Dr. Jian Wang: The “1992 Consensus” refers to an understanding reached between Beijing and Taipei in 1992, acknowledging that there is only “one China,” but allowing for differing interpretations of what that means. However, the term itself is controversial, with differing interpretations on both sides. By mentioning it, China is trying to claim legitimacy for its position and frame the issue within its preferred narrative.The strong rejection of “taiwan independence” underlines the Chinese government’s determination to prevent any formal declaration of sovereignty by Taiwan.
Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond
Senior Editor: the message looks ahead to 2025, a significant year marking several anniversaries. How might these anniversaries shape China’s approach to Taiwan in the coming years?
Dr. Jian Wang: The 80th anniversary of the victory over Japan and the “liberation” of Taiwan in 2025 will likely be used by Beijing to bolster its claims over the island. It’s possible we’ll see increased propaganda and symbolic actions aimed at solidifying these narratives. However, it’s crucial to watch for any shifts in strategy, especially given the complex geopolitical landscape and the evolving situation in the Taiwan Strait.
