China Reaffirms Commitment to Reunification on Anti-Secession Law Anniversary

A symposium was held in Beijing on March 14, 2025, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Anti-Secession Law. The event was addressed by Zhao Leji, a high-ranking official within the Chinese government. He underscored the necessity of actively countering "Taiwan independence" separatist actions and preventing external involvement.

Zhao, also a member of the Communist Party's Political Bureau, highlighted the importance of consistently working towards national reunification. The Anti-Secession Law, enacted in March 2005, asserts that Taiwan and mainland China are part of a single China, and that China's sovereignty and territorial integrity are indivisible.

China's Ministry of State Security released a statement emphasizing the law's role in deterring separatist efforts and promoting peaceful reunification over the past two decades. The law has provided a strong legal framework for maintaining stability in the Taiwan Straits and fostering cross-Straits relations.

Li Zhenguang, a deputy director at the Institute of Taiwan Studies, noted that the symposium, along with statements from relevant authorities, demonstrates the mainland's firm resolve in addressing the Taiwan question. This includes opposing "Taiwan independence" and external interference while pursuing national reunification. Li also pointed out that a key challenge in current cross-Straits relations is the push for "Taiwan independence" by hardline separatists.

Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, criticized Taiwan's regional leader, Lai Ching-te, for his stance on "Taiwan independence." Chen stated that Lai's actions demonstrate he is a "destroyer of cross-Straits peace" and a "creator of crisis in the Taiwan Straits." Lai's remarks have raised concerns in Taiwan, with some fearing a further deterioration of cross-Straits relations.

Li stated that the more "Taiwan independence" separatists push their agenda, the closer they come to a dead end. The mainland is using legal measures to target specific separatist figures. Li emphasized that reunification is a historical trend and the correct path.

On social media, many users reposted the hashtag "Taiwan, Province of China," making it a trending topic. This followed similar posts from mainland netizens and several Taiwan-based celebrities, who affirmed that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China.