The relations between China and Taiwan have always been complicated. China claims Taiwan to be a part of it, while Taiwan values its independence and sovereignty. Recently, China’s Defense Minister Dong Jun, while speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, said that the possibility of peaceful ‘reunification’ with Taiwan is being ‘undermined’ by Taiwanese separatists and external forces.
Current Developments
On June 2, 2024, Dong Jun said that China is ready to prevent Taiwan’s independence ‘by force’. He also warned that China’s restraint in the South China Sea has ‘limits’. This statement has given rise to a ‘new level of intimidation’ in the region.
Analysis
This stance of China has raised concerns in Taiwan as well as the international community. Taiwan says that it deeply regrets such ‘provocative and irrational’ statements by China. Taiwan has also reiterated that the People’s Republic of China has never ruled the island.
Conclusion
The China-Taiwan summit is an issue that is important not just between these two countries, but for the entire world. Finding a solution to this is vital for international peace and stability. Going forward, it remains to be seen how this tense situation is resolved.