Xinhua, the Chinese state news agency, has announced its selection of the top ten news stories concerning Taiwan for 2024, with significant focus on political developments and military actions. Notably, the meeting between Xi Jinping and Ma Ying-jeou on April 10, 2024, has taken the top spot, overshadowing military exercise reports.
The list was released on December 25, 2023, during a period marked by heightened tensions across the Taiwan Strait. The compilation emphasizes China’s core messaging surrounding sovereignty and the idea of unification with Taiwan.
Coming in first on the list is the April meeting where Xi declared the importance of safeguarding the Chinese heritage and fostering unity under the belief of great revival for the Chinese nation. He stated, "A clear commitment was made to safeguarding the shared homeland of the Chinese people, fostering long-term wellbeing, and realizing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation." This meeting is notable not only for its political significance but also for the symbolism it carries for relations between Taiwan and the mainland.
Following this, the second story focuses on the meeting between Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden held in Lima, where Taiwan's status was addressed amid rising tensions. Biden reaffirmed the U.S. stance, stating, "The U.S. will continue upholding the One China policy and will not support Taiwan independence." This assertion directly ties to the larger geopolitical strategies of both nations concerning Taiwan.
Other noteworthy mentions include Xi's pledges during his visit to Fujian province, emphasizing the need for cultural and economic integration between Taiwan and the mainland. "We must take greater strides down the path of cross-strait fusion development," Xi stated, advocating for shared values and identity among the Chinese populace, including those from Taiwan.
Among the military developments, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) conducted two significant exercises: the first, "Joint Sword 2024A," around Taiwan from May 23 to 24, and the second, "Joint Sword 2024B," on October 14. The PLA utilized these exercises to assert military strength, with officials claiming, "This military exercise is necessary to deter provocations against our sovereignty." The focus on military readiness demonstrates China's commitment to a show of force amid anticipated provocations.
The results of the Taiwanese elections, which will be revealed on January 13, are also heavily discussed. The State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office projected, "Taiwan is China's Taiwan, and the election results do not change the fundamental situation of cross-strait relations." This comment reflects the underlying concern from Beijing about the potential outcomes of the elections, particularly if pro-independence sentiments gain traction.
Further complicative measures mentioned include the lifting of tariffs against 134 Taiwanese imports effective June 15, 2024. China's policies reflect strategic economic maneuvers aimed at underscoring their influence over Taiwan’s economy.
The announcement of these top stories also coincides with plans for cultural exchanges. A delegation of teachers and students is set to visit Taiwan, part of efforts to promote goodwill and deepen connections. Reports indicate they have been "warmly welcomed" by various sectors on the island, contradicting the prevailing notions of estrangement between the peoples.
Completing the list is the diplomatic rupture between Taiwan and Nauru, restored by the People's Republic of China, marking another shift in Taiwan's international standing. This situation exemplifies the intricacies of global diplomacy surrounding Taiwan.
The embroidery of these narratives reflects more than mere announcements; rather, they serve as China's strategic framework to reinforce its claims over Taiwan and to advocate for Reunification. The selected stories, devoid of Taipei’s perspective, reveal the narrative dominance China seeks to maintain as it engages with both Taiwanese citizens and the international community.
Assembly of these reports leads to reflections on the future of Taiwanese autonomy amid political and military posturing by the Chinese government. The top ten stories not only encapsulate the events of 2024 but highlight the pathways of communication and the intentions of the Chinese leadership toward Taiwan.
