Chinese President Xi Jinping was filmed delivering a New Year’s address on Sunday. In his speech, he asserted that China “will definitely unify” Taiwan.Photo provided by: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China
Jan. 1 (UPI) — In his New Year’s address, Chinese President Xi Jinping asserted that Taiwan will “definitely” reunite as the country prepares for a presidential election.
Xi’s remarks on Sunday come less than two weeks before Taiwan’s Jan. 13 vote.
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According to an official translation provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Chinese leader said his country “will definitely be unified” with Taiwan, while also saying that “all Chinese people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait should be bound by a sense of common purpose.” Yes,” he added. And let us share in the glory of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. ”
Relations between China and the United States have been strained over the United States’ support for Taiwan’s sovereignty.
Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen rejected Xi’s comments in her New Year’s speech, insisting that the country’s future should be decided through democratic elections.
Tsai has served as president for eight years but is not eligible for re-election under Taiwan’s constitution. In her next presidential election, Kiyonori Lai will be the representative of the Democratic Progressive Party to which she belongs. He currently serves as vice president.
In his speech, President Xi also referred to China’s economic achievements in 2023, called for “good education” for children and medical care for the elderly, and looked ahead to 2024.
“We will work closely with the international community for the common interests of humanity, build a community with a shared future for humanity, and make the world a better place for everyone,” Xi said.
The Chinese leader also contacted Russian President Vladimir Putin to express Sino-Russian solidarity.