China and Taiwan are engaged in an intensifying dispute over their historical ties, with Beijing maintaining that Taiwan is an integral part of its territory.
Chinese officials have pointed to the 1943 Cairo Declaration and the 1945 Potsdam Declaration, which followed Japan’s World War II surrender, as evidence of Taiwan, a Japanese colony from 1895 to 1945, being returned to China.
Beijing argues that Taiwan’s status as Chinese territory is indisputable and rejects any notion of invading what it considers its own land.
This stance reflects China’s broader efforts to assert its claims amid rising political friction with Taiwan’s government.
Taiwan’s leadership, led by President Lai Ching-te, has firmly rejected Beijing’s historical and territorial assertions.
In recent speeches focused on national unity, Lai has argued that Taiwan’s future lies in the hands of its people through democratic processes.
He emphasized the Republic of China’s 113-year history, contrasting it with the 70-year-old People’s Republic of China, to highlight Taiwan’s distinct identity.
Taiwan’s defense ministry has also challenged Beijing’s narrative, asserting that the Republic of China, not the People’s Republic, led the resistance against Japan in World War II, reinforcing Taiwan’s claim to its historical legacy.
The rhetorical clash coincides with increased military activity.
China conducts near-daily air and naval operations around Taiwan, with significant war games reported in April.
Taiwan’s defense ministry notes frequent deployments of Chinese warplanes, raising concerns about the potential for conflict.
Beijing’s invitation to include Republic of China veterans in a September military parade marking the 70th anniversary of World War II’s end has sparked further tension, with Taiwan accusing China of manipulating history.
As both sides entrench their positions, the prospect of miscalculation looms, threatening stability in the region.