In a recent development, China has unveiled a comprehensive plan to enhance integration between its coastal province of Fujian and Taiwan, a self-governing territory. While on one hand, this directive aims to strengthen cross-strait cooperation and promote closer ties, it coincides with China’s demonstration of military might by deploying warships near Taiwan.
The directive, issued jointly by the Chinese Communist Party’s Central Committee and the State Council, outlines the vision of transforming Fujian into a “demonstration zone” for integrated development with Taiwan. It is also proposed as the “first home” for Taiwanese residents and businesses looking to settle in China.
This announcement comes at a delicate juncture in cross-strait relations, with Taiwan preparing for its presidential election in January. Simultaneously, China has been escalating military pressure on Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its territory.
Prior to the release of the integration plan, a Chinese aircraft carrier and approximately two dozen warships were observed gathering in waters near Taiwan, a development that raised concerns in Taipei.
China has long pursued a dual strategy with Taiwan, offering economic and cultural exchanges while simultaneously threatening military action to assert its claims. Given the recent tensions and strained relations, the reception of China’s proposal in Taiwan remains uncertain.
Wang Ting-yu, a Taiwanese lawmaker from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, criticized the integration plan as “ridiculous,” emphasizing that China should focus on addressing its own economic challenges rather than advancing its political goals through united front efforts.
China, however, presented the plan as a significant step in deepening cross-strait cooperation, with officials underscoring its importance in President Xi Jinping’s overall Taiwan strategy.
The concept of developing Fujian in conjunction with Taiwan first appeared in China’s official documents in 2021 but lacked specifics. Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council had previously dismissed it as “meaningless” and not aligned with the expectations of the Taiwanese public.
The new directive outlines several key measures, including improving the business environment for Taiwanese firms in Fujian, fostering industrial and capital cooperation, and encouraging Taiwanese companies to list on Chinese stock exchanges. It also allows Taiwanese companies to invest in and establish radio and television production companies in Fujian.
Furthermore, the plan aims to attract Taiwanese workers and families to settle in Fujian by enhancing social welfare programs, facilitating property ownership, and ensuring equal educational opportunities for Taiwanese students.
Fujian, with its geographic and cultural proximity to Taiwan, plays a pivotal role in China’s integration efforts. Many Taiwanese trace their roots to Fujian immigrants, who have significantly influenced the island’s culture.
This move is part of China’s longstanding strategy to emphasize historical, cultural, and geographic ties between Fujian and Taiwan as a basis for closer economic and social integration, ultimately aiming at reunification.
The directive also focuses on Taiwan’s outlying islands of Kinmen and Matsu, which have stronger historical ties with the mainland. It promises to expedite integration between the city of Xiamen and Kinmen, exploring infrastructure projects such as electricity and gas transport and bridge construction.
While some in Kinmen see these proposals as potentially beneficial for economic development, it is essential to consider the broader geopolitical context of China’s intentions, as tensions between the two sides continue to simmer.
In conclusion, China’s integration plan for Taiwan raises questions about its true motives amid military posturing, adding further complexity to the already sensitive cross-strait relations.
Check out the latest news in our Global News section
Stay updated on environmental data and insights by following KI Data on Twitter
