China Warns of Action Against Taiwan at Global Security Forum

China’s Defence Minister Dong Jun reiterated Beijing’s unwavering commitment to annexing self-governed Taiwan during his opening address at the annual Beijing Xiangshan Forum, a platform for China to assert regional leadership and foster military cooperation. Speaking to an audience of international military officials in Beijing, Dong declared that the “restoration” of Taiwan to China is an essential component of the post-World War II international order, intensifying longstanding tensions over the democratic island.

Taiwan, a nation of 23 million people that has governed itself independently since 1949, is viewed by Beijing as a breakaway province. China maintains its claim through near-daily military maneuvers, deploying warships and aircraft around the island to exert pressure. Dong emphasized that China would “never allow any separatist attempts for Taiwan independence to succeed” and vowed to counter “any external military interference,” signaling readiness to use force if necessary to achieve unification.

Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te and the ruling Democratic Progressive Party firmly reject Beijing’s claims, asserting that Taiwan is a sovereign nation whose future lies in the hands of its people. Dong’s remarks, while not explicitly naming the United States, criticized “external military interference” and actions that “coerce others into taking sides,” accusing such behaviors of sowing global chaos and conflict.

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The forum follows China’s recent display of military might during a massive parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end, where the world’s largest army showcased advanced weaponry, including hypersonic missiles and tanks. Dong underscored China’s commitment to a “UN-centred international system” for global peace and stability, insisting that Beijing seeks to reinforce, not disrupt, the existing post-war order.

The renewed threats underscore the delicate balance of power in the region, as China’s assertive rhetoric and military posturing continue to challenge Taiwan’s sovereignty and draw international attention to the potential for escalation in the Taiwan Strait.

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