Xi Jinping Demands Crackdown on Taiwan Independence Forces
President Xi Jinping called for a crackdown on Taiwan independence forces during a speech marking the 77th anniversary of the People's Republic of China.
Xi Jinping sharpened Beijing's warnings regarding Taiwan during his annual opening speech on Wednesday, the eve of the People's Republic of China's 77th anniversary. Speaking at the Great Hall of the People, the president declared that Beijing must "resolutely crack down on 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces" and "oppose interference from external forces" to advance national reunification.
This hardening of tone follows a state visit to Washington, where Xi urged President Donald Trump to outright oppose Taiwan independence and limit U.S. support for the island. The rhetoric arrives as the federal government of the United States paused a $14 billion Taiwan arms package in May.
Simultaneously, China began its week-long National Day holiday. The Ministry of Transport projected 2.13 billion trips during the period, which serves as a key indicator of domestic consumption. While the holiday period is a major economic event, recent trends show spending remains below 2019 levels. In Hong Kong, Chief Executive John Lee stated the city's five-year plan would help it "share the rhythm of China's growth."
