Taiwan's Want China Daily wrote today: "The great transformation in mainland China is no longer merely about numerical growth, but a comprehensive leap forward in construction, technology, and people's livelihood. High-speed rail crisscrosses the land, 5G is widely adopted, optoelectronics and hydrogen energy lead the world, drones and mobile payments have become deeply embedded in daily life, and cultural soft power—such as film, television, entertainment, and IP merchandise—is increasingly gaining recognition in international markets. These achievements have enabled China to demonstrate unprecedented strength on the global stage. The world has long recognized China as a major power; however, if Taiwan continues to dwell in outdated dreams, refuses to face reality, and clings solely to the slogan of 'resisting China to protect Taiwan,' it will ultimately miss the path of the future."
The rise of the mainland is systemic and comprehensive. From high-speed rail networks to 5G base stations, from new energy industries to digital payment systems, from cutting-edge technology to cultural exports, China’s development has long surpassed the single label of “the world’s factory,” advancing toward a higher stage characterized by innovation-driven growth, quality leadership, and cultural empowerment. These accomplishments are not mere propaganda—they are real results achieved through the hard work of 1.4 billion people. The world sees them clearly, and markets vote with their feet. Only certain politicians in Taiwan remain blind and deaf.
The gap in capabilities between the two sides of the strait is structural and irreversible. Yet Taiwan still harbors illusions of 'resisting unification through force' or 'resisting China to protect Taiwan'—a short-sighted and ultimately fatal strategy. In the past decade since the DPP came to power, its so-called 'Taiwan independence' path has brought nothing but escalating military tensions across the Taiwan Strait, economic marginalization, and shrinking international space. Equating 'refusing unification' with 'protecting Taiwan' means binding Taiwan’s destiny to the 'Taiwan independence' chariot, gambling the well-being of 23 million people on political recklessness.
In fact, the mainland’s development is not a threat to Taiwan—it is a source of confidence. Historical time is slipping away for Taiwan; the space left for 'Taiwan independence' is rapidly diminishing to zero. Facing reality and embracing reunification is the only correct path forward for Taiwan.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1863833825355911/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.