Why China supports reunification with Taiwan

The issue of reunification between China and Taiwan has been a highly debated topic in international relations. Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China, has had a complicated relationship with mainland China, officially known as the People’s Republic of China, since the Chinese Civil War ended in 1949, resulting in the split of the two nations. China has consistently expressed its desire for reunification, and there are several reasons why China supports this reunification.

First and foremost, China considers Taiwan as an integral part of its territory. From a historical perspective, Taiwan was under Chinese rule for centuries before Japan colonized it in the late 19th century. After Japan’s defeat in World War II, Taiwan was returned to China in accordance with the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Declaration, both of which recognized China’s sovereignty over the island. From a legal standpoint, China believes that Taiwan’s status as a separate entity violates the principle of territorial integrity, which is a fundamental principle of international law.

Aside from historical and legal reasons, China also emphasizes the importance of reunification for national unity and stability. The Chinese government argues that the division between China and Taiwan has hindered China’s progress and development. Reunification would enable the government to focus on important domestic issues such as economic development, poverty eradication, and social welfare. Chinese leaders believe that a unified China would be stronger and more stable, enabling it to exert greater influence on the global stage.

Furthermore, China considers reunification with Taiwan as necessary to safeguard its national security. The geopolitical significance of Taiwan cannot be underestimated. Its strategic location in the Taiwan Strait gives it a crucial role in China’s defense posture. China sees Taiwan’s independence as a potential security threat, as it could provide a strategic base for foreign intervention or hostile activities against the mainland. Reunification would eliminate this potential vulnerability and reinforce China’s national security.

Another factor influencing China’s support for reunification is the principle of One China. China’s One China policy asserts that there is only one China in the world, and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinese territory. Numerous countries, including the United States, formally recognized this principle by severing diplomatic relations with Taiwan and establishing official ties with mainland China. For China, reunification with Taiwan is not only a matter of national pride and sovereignty, but also a way to further solidify the international recognition of its One China policy.

Additionally, China’s support for reunification is also driven by economic considerations. Taiwan, with its highly developed economy and technological prowess, is seen as a valuable asset to China. Reunification would allow greater economic integration between the two regions, leading to increased trade, investment, and cooperation. China envisions a reunified China-Taiwan as a regional economic powerhouse, capable of competing with other major economies in the world.

In conclusion, China holds a strong position in supporting reunification with Taiwan due to historical, legal, national security, unity, and economic reasons. China’s desire for reunification is based on the belief of its historical right to the island, its commitment to territorial integrity, and its aspirations for national unity and stability. Reunification is seen as a means to safeguard China’s national security, consolidate the One China policy, and capitalize on the economic potential of a reunified China-Taiwan. Nevertheless, the issue of reunification remains complex and sensitive, and any progress towards resolution would require delicate diplomacy and dialogue between the two sides.