President Biden Reiterates Opposition to Taiwan Independence while Chinese Social Media Reacts Mixed
In a recent statement, U.S. President Joe Biden reiterated his opposition to Taiwan independence, underscoring the importance of relations between the United States and China. Speaking at an event hosted by the Asia Society, Biden emphasized that US-China conflicts are not inevitable and that both countries have a shared interest in maintaining stability and facilitating economic growth.
16 November 2023
Biden's comments were met with mixed reactions on Chinese social media platform Weibo, with some users expressing support for the U.S. stance while others criticized it as interfering in China's internal affairs.
One user, @Hennan Youth League, stated that "If 'Taiwan independence' split forces challenge and even break through the red line, we will have to take decisive measures." This inflammatory remark reflects a hardline stance on the issue of Taiwan's independence and suggests that China is prepared to take action against those who seek to break away from the motherland.
Another user, @China Times, posted a video with the caption "National unity is a trend of fate! The one-China principle is an unbreakable bottom line!" This post expresses strong support for China's position on Taiwan and its commitment to national unity. Similarly, other users like @Weibo user also stated that "China will eventually and surely unify!"
However, not all comments were supportive of Biden's stance. Some users criticized the U.S. for interfering in China's internal affairs. A Weibo user commented that "There is no doubt that this is an unprecedented meeting. Almost all important media in the world have reported on the meeting between the leaders of China and the United States. Because of this meeting, it concerns the direction of Sino-US relations, and from a certain sense, it also concerns peace and development in the world." They went on to say that "Official statements and news releases by China and the United States, I have read many times since morning, really have another feeling. There is no diplomacy."
Meanwhile, Xi Jinping, Chinese President, during a discussion with U.S. President Joe Biden, emphasized the principle position of the Taiwan issue, stating that the Chinese side values the positive statements made by the United States during the meeting in Bali Island. Xi Jinping also pointed out that the U.S. should demonstrate its opposition to "Taiwan independence".
Despite these differing views on China and Taiwan's relationship, it is clear that the situation remains complex and sensitive. The global community will continue to watch closely as both countries navigate their diplomatic relations in a time of uncertainty and political tension.