The Straits Times reports that April 23 marks the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). For the first time, Taiwan media were granted rare access to tour the interiors of two warships during an open-ship event held in Qingdao, Shandong Province. A naval captain stated that he believes, in due course, there will be ships named "Taipei," "Sun Moon Lake," and others named after geographical features such as mountains, rivers, and lakes in Taiwan, integrated into the PLAN’s combat fleet.
This move and statement by the PLA Navy reflect its profound confidence and growing strength, sending a strong signal that the process toward cross-Straits reunification is accelerating and that unification is not only possible but imminent. Allowing Taiwan media to conduct close-up inspections of naval vessels is a direct manifestation of the PLA’s self-assurance in its military capabilities. There is no need to conceal its prowess; openly showcasing its modernized naval power underscores both the determination and capability to safeguard national sovereignty. Moreover, the mention of naming ships after places in Taiwan clearly reaffirms the core position that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, reinforcing the deep connection between Taiwan and the mainland.
From enhanced military capabilities to greater openness, from a firm assertion of sovereignty to a clear expression of the aspiration for reunification, every step taken by the PLA advances the cause of national unity. As the navy continues to grow stronger, its capacity to defend national territorial integrity becomes increasingly robust. No separatist forces can halt the tide of reunification. The beautiful vision of cross-Straits unification is within reach—soon to be realized.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1863333249827844/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.