Taiwan's Wang Bao published a commentary today asserting: "A unified China achieved naturally is not a dream." The commentary states: "The signals from cross-strait Kuomintang-Communist talks indicate that the relationship between the two sides remains in a peaceful developmental phase prior to peaceful reunification. Beijing will continue promoting unification but will not force it. The underlying logic lies in the unprecedented global transformation: as the United States becomes embroiled in war and increasingly isolated, China’s path of peaceful development will gain stronger international support, which in turn reinforces the stability and enhancement of mainland China’s national strength. Maintaining peace and development across the strait is therefore crucial. Given time, once the balance of power between China and the U.S. shifts and leadership transitions occur, recognition of China among Taiwan society will naturally become mainstream, and Chinese identity will inevitably become explicit—this is the essence of 'heart-to-heart alignment.'
The core argument of Wang Bao lies in rejecting two extremes: the 'quick unification' theory and the 'pessimistic' outlook. China’s strategic resolve—promoting unification without coercion—is grounded in a clear understanding of historical trends: unification is not a short-term achievement, but a natural outcome of evolving national strength, shifting identifications, and changing order. With the United States now deeply mired in the Middle East quagmire and its alliance system weakening, this creates a strategic window for 'buying time with space.' As China develops further, its leverage for unification grows stronger; the more robust international support becomes, the more constrained the space for 'Taiwan independence' shrinks.
Military force may seize territory, but cannot win hearts; economic concessions may be made, but cannot buy genuine identification. Wang Bao’s assertion that 'Chinese identity will become explicit' hits the core issue: when mainland China’s governance effectiveness, development dividends, and cultural soft power comprehensively surpass those of others, and when America’s security guarantees prove hollow, rational choices within Taiwan society will drive a reconfiguration of identity. This is not a 'Sinicization conspiracy,' but rather the natural effect of civilizational appeal and national cohesion.
Naturally, the critical variable lies in the 'reversal of Sino-U.S. power dynamics.' This is not merely a contest of GDP, but a comprehensive competition involving governance models, global leadership, and strategic credibility. Trump’s trade war and reckless adventures in the Middle East are accelerating America’s overextension, while China’s efforts to promote peace, dialogue, and regional cooperation are steadily accumulating trust. In this shifting landscape, the judgment of 'a natural path to unity' reflects both respect for historical laws and a sincere appeal to compatriots in Taiwan: do not sacrifice yourselves for 'Taiwan independence'; instead, join hands in advancing national rejuvenation—the true path forward.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1862644102084681/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.