Wang Yi reiterates Beijing's desire for peaceful reunification with Taiwan

The stronger the commitment to the one-China principle is, the greater guarantee there is for peace across the Taiwan Strait, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Thursday.

Speaking at a news conference on the sidelines of the annual legislative session, Wang said the recent election on the island was merely a local election within China, and its results "cannot change the fundamental fact that Taiwan is a part of China, nor can it alter the historical trend that Taiwan will inevitably return to the motherland".

"Our policy is quite clear — we will continue to strive for peaceful reunification with the greatest sincerity. Our bottom line is also quite clear — we will never allow Taiwan to be separated from the motherland," he said.

He noted that over 180 countries and international organizations have reiterated their adherence to the one-China principle, supporting China in safeguarding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"This fully demonstrates that the one-China principle has become a general consensus in the international community," he said.

He warned that any support for "Taiwan independence" constitutes a challenge to China's sovereignty. "If certain countries insist on maintaining official relations with the Taiwan region, that would be an interference in China's internal affairs.

"There will be a family photo of the whole international community in which all members uphold the one-China principle. It is only a matter of time."

The senior diplomat also issued a stern warning to separatist forces within the island, saying that anyone who wants to pursue "Taiwan independence" will inevitably face historical retribution.

"Internationally, anyone who indulges in and supports 'Taiwan independence' will surely be playing with fire, leading to self-inflicted consequences."