China's desire to take over Taiwan stems from historical, political, and strategic factors, rooted in the Chinese government's longstanding claim of sovereignty over the island. Since the Chinese Civil War in the mid-20th century, when the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) emerged victorious and established the People's Republic of China (PRC) on the mainland, Taiwan has been governed separately as the Republic of China (ROC), led by the Kuomintang (KMT) party. Despite decades of political separation and differing governance systems, Beijing considers Taiwan to be an integral part of its territory and has pursued a policy of eventual reunification, by force if necessary, viewing Taiwan's independence or international recognition as a red line that threatens China's territorial integrity and national sovereignty.
Historical Claim:
China's claim to Taiwan dates back to the aftermath of World War II, when the defeated Japanese Empire relinquished control of Taiwan, which had been a Japanese colony since 1895. The Republic of China, led by the KMT under Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, took control of Taiwan in 1945, following Japan's surrender, as part of the post-war settlement. However, after the Chinese Civil War erupted between the KMT and the CCP in 1946, the KMT retreated to Taiwan in 1949 following its defeat by the CCP. The establishment of the People's Republic of China on the mainland and the continuation of the Republic of China government on Taiwan led to the political division that persists to this day, with both Beijing and Taipei claiming to represent the legitimate government of all of China.
One-China Principle:
The Chinese government adheres to the "One-China Principle," which asserts that there is only one China in the world and that Taiwan is an inseparable part of Chinese territory. This principle forms the basis of China's foreign policy and diplomatic relations, as Beijing insists that all countries that maintain diplomatic ties with the PRC must acknowledge the One-China Principle and sever official relations with Taiwan. China views any move toward Taiwan's independence or formal separation from the mainland as a violation of this principle and a threat to its territorial integrity, national sovereignty, and core interests. As a result, Beijing has consistently opposed efforts by Taiwan to gain international recognition or membership in international organizations, such as the United Nations.
Strategic Considerations:
Taiwan's strategic location in the Western Pacific, at the crossroads of East Asia, makes it of great strategic importance to China, as well as to other regional powers and the United States. Control of Taiwan would enhance China's geopolitical position and maritime capabilities, allowing it to project power and influence throughout the region and potentially challenge the dominance of the United States and its allies in the Asia-Pacific. Taiwan's proximity to major shipping lanes, vital sea routes, and strategic chokepoints, such as the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, also makes it a key maritime hub and economic gateway for China's trade and energy imports.
Nationalist Sentiment and Domestic Politics:
For the Chinese government and the ruling Communist Party, Taiwan's reunification with the mainland is not only a matter of national sovereignty and territorial integrity but also a potent symbol of China's resurgence as a great power and rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Nationalist sentiment and historical grievances dating back to the century of humiliation, when China suffered colonial encroachment and foreign domination, further fuel Beijing's determination to reclaim Taiwan and restore China's perceived rightful place in the world. Domestically, the issue of Taiwan reunification is a deeply emotive and politically sensitive issue that enjoys broad support among the Chinese population, who view Taiwan as an integral part of their national identity and heritage.
Deterrence and Military Preparedness:
China's military modernization and buildup in recent years have been driven in part by its desire to enhance its capabilities for potential conflict over Taiwan and deter external intervention by the United States or other regional powers. The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) has developed a range of military assets and capabilities, including ballistic missiles, naval vessels, and aircraft, designed to counter U.S. military forces and project power across the Taiwan Strait. Beijing has also pursued a policy of coercive diplomacy and saber-rattling, conducting military exercises, air and naval patrols, and other shows of force in the vicinity of Taiwan to signal its readiness and resolve to defend its territorial claims.
Taiwanese Democracy and Identity:
Taiwan's vibrant democracy, free society, and distinct cultural identity have contributed to a growing sense of Taiwanese nationalism and a desire for self-determination and autonomy among the Taiwanese people. Despite historical ties to China, many Taiwanese view themselves as separate and distinct from the mainland and reject the notion of reunification under Beijing's rule. Taiwan's democratic institutions, respect for human rights, and rule of law stand in stark contrast to China's authoritarian regime and repression of dissent, further deepening the political and ideological divide between the two sides. As Taiwan continues to assert its sovereignty and international presence, tensions between Beijing and Taipei are likely to persist, posing challenges to regional stability and security in the Asia-Pacific.