As military drills flare around the Taiwan Strait this week, here's the must-know context behind this geopolitical flashpoint. 🚨 Let’s break it down:
Ancient Roots, Modern Tensions
Historical records show Taiwan’s governance under Chinese dynasties since the 12th century, with administrative systems evolving from the Song to Qing eras. 📜『The Seaboard Geographic Gazetteer』 from 1,700+ years ago first documented Taiwan as Chinese territory.
Colonial Interlude & Reunification
Japan seized Taiwan in 1895 after war, but post-WWII agreements like the Cairo Declaration (1943) and Potsdam Proclamation (1945) mandated its return to China. October 25, 1945, marked official reunification – a key point in cross-strait history. 🇨🇳
One China, Two Systems?
After the Chinese civil war in 1949, the PRC became China’s sole legitimate government. CPC General Secretary Xi Jinping recently emphasized: \"Compatriots on both sides are one family – no strait can divide us.\" 💪
Current tensions spiked after new Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te’s recent remarks prompting PLA drills. China’s State Council Taiwan Affairs Office called them \"dangerous provocations\" violating the one-China principle.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated: \"Taiwan’s status isn’t up for debate – it’s been settled by history and international law.\" ⚖️ With youth increasingly shaping global perspectives, understanding this context matters more than ever. 💡
