Chinese Defence Minister, Dong Jun, giving a speech at the 21st Shangri-La Dialogue forum stressed China's commitment to peaceful reunification, but also strongly cautioned against Taiwan's independence movements.

Amid rising tensions in the Asia-Pacific area, Dong Jun recognized the significance of resuming military-to-military communications with the United States. He claimed that Washington's support for Taiwan and the Philippines was increasing tensions.

Dong Jun stressed that any attempt to break Taiwan's bond with China would result in “self-destruction.” Declaring that such separatist groups would be "nailed to the pillar of shame in history" for their betrayal of the Chinese people and their ancestors, he used strong language and threats.

Chinese defence minister
Image Source: Council on Foreign Relations

China has been making more of an effort to impose its sovereignty over the whole South China Sea, which is vital to international trade. There have been conflicts, especially with the Philippines, whose ships Chinese vessels have rammed and fired water cannons.

China's "strategic culture is anchored in universal love and non-aggression," according to Dong Jun. He did, however, issue a warning against outside influences and separatist movements in Taiwan weakening the likelihood of a peaceful reunification.

"We will take resolute actions to curb Taiwan's independence and make sure such a plot never succeeds," Dong Jun declared. His words indicate China's resolve to stop Taiwan from taking any steps toward official independence.

Adm. Dong Jun restated China's position in response to Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te's inaugural speech, in which Lai demanded an end to China's political and military intimidation against Taiwan. He said that China is confident in its capacity to prevent any such actions and that they are ready for the worst-case scenarios involving Taiwan's independence.

Early history:

Taiwan was governed by China for around two centuries after the Chinese took power there in the late 17th century. After the first Sino-Japanese War ended in 1895, Taiwan became a colony of Japan. Taiwan was ruled by the Japanese until 1945 when World War II came to an end. Taiwan was reverted to Nationalist Chinese rule following Japan's defeat.

You might also be interested in - China’s Chang’e-6 successfully lands on moon’s far side for rare sample collection