China's Firm Stance Against Taiwan Independence and Foreign Interference in 2024

The Chinese government is resolute in its efforts to counteract movements for "Taiwan independence" as well as foreign involvement that might disrupt the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. According to officials and experts, preparations are underway to address any uncertainties in the region as the country moves into the new year.

In his New Year address, President Xi Jinping reaffirmed that no force can sever the connections among compatriots across the Taiwan Strait or halt the trend toward China's reunification. Song Tao, the head of the Taiwan Work Office, expressed that the mainland will take decisive actions to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity, ensuring peace and prosperity within the nation.

Looking ahead, Song emphasized the importance of collaboration with various sectors in Taiwanese society to maintain stability across the Strait. He articulated that robust measures will be undertaken to deter separatist movements and prevent external forces from using Taiwan to challenge China's development.

Experts noted that under the Biden administration, there has been significant U.S. involvement in Taiwan-related issues, undermining the one-China principle through actions such as arms sales. This interference, particularly with two Taiwanese leaders traveling through the U.S. and direct challenges to UN resolutions, has exacerbated tensions.

Zhu Weidong pointed out the troubling escalation of U.S. military support for Taiwan and its economic policies that encourage the island's decoupling from the mainland. He warned that these developments could foster a misguided belief in Taiwan's independence, further straining relations in the Strait.

Commentators have speculated that the incoming Trump administration might leverage the "Taiwan card" to its advantage against China, citing Trump's demands that Taiwan allocate a significant portion of its GDP for defense. Other former officials caution that Taiwan is not a U.S. ally but rather a tool in international strategy that could lead to dire consequences for the island.

Li Peng of Xiamen University indicated that the Taiwan issue is central to U.S.-China relations, with the mainland unwilling to make concessions. He advised that the DPP government in Taiwan should avoid misreading the situation, as the U.S. is likely to support Taiwan financially but may not engage militarily in a conflict.

Looking to historical reflections in 2024, officials stressed the significance of marking the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's return from Japanese occupation and urged all Chinese people to unite for the purpose of achieving national rejuvenation and complete reunification.