The reasons for tensions between China and Taiwan – BBC News

China Launches Military Drills Around Taiwan Amid Rising Tensions

China has initiated major military exercises around Taiwan, simulating a full-scale attack on the island, just days after the inauguration of new president William Lai. The drills underscore China’s claim over self-governed Taiwan, a contentious issue at the heart of the ongoing conflict.

Beijing views Taiwan as a breakaway province that will eventually reunite with the mainland, even hinting at the use of force to achieve this goal. However, many Taiwanese identify themselves as part of a separate nation and prefer to maintain the current status quo, avoiding a formal declaration of independence or unification with China.

The historical backdrop of the China-Taiwan relationship dates back centuries, with Taiwan’s first settlers believed to have originated from southern China. Over the years, control of the island has shifted between various powers, including the Qing dynasty, Japan, and the Republic of China under Chiang Kai-shek.

In recent decades, tensions have escalated as Taiwan transitioned to democracy and elected leaders with differing views on independence. The election of President Tsai Ing-wen in 2016 marked a turning point, leading to strained cross-strait relations and increased Chinese assertiveness under President Xi Jinping.

The United States plays a crucial role in the Taiwan-China dynamic, maintaining official ties with Beijing while also supporting Taiwan militarily. President Joe Biden’s commitment to defend Taiwan has further complicated the already complex relationship between the US, China, and Taiwan.

As military exercises intensify and political tensions rise, the future of Taiwan-China relations remains uncertain, with implications for regional stability and global geopolitics.