China’s Premier Li Qiang (李強) reiterated China’s firm position on reunification on Tuesday during the opening session of China’s National People’s Congress (NPC), also known as the national legislature.
The Premier’s government work report, delivered in the Great Hall of the People, included China’s stance regarding Taiwan where Li reiterated China’s firm position on reunification. Li affirmed adherence to the One-China principle and the 1992 Consensus, staunchly opposing Taiwan independence and any external interference on matters relating to the island nation.
Taiwan Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jeff Liu (劉永健) stated during a press conference that remarks of the Chinese premier are of the same old tune that Taiwan is a province of China.
In response, Liu emphasizes that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign independent country and is not subordinate to the People's Republic of China, the latter of which has never ruled Taiwan. Liu asserts that any distortion of Taiwan's sovereignty will not change the reality in the Taiwan Strait. Liu adds Taiwan will continue to uphold the values of democracy and freedom and work with like-minded countries to maintain global and regional peace and stability.