Chinese President Xi Jinping Highlights Technological Progress and Territorial Claims in New Year Address
Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a New Year’s Eve address praising China’s advancements in key technological sectors such as artificial intelligence and semiconductors. He also reiterated China’s intention to annex self-ruled Taiwan, a move that has sparked tensions with the United States.
In his speech broadcast by state media, Xi commended China’s achievements in military technology, space exploration, and innovation. He expressed gratitude to the Chinese people for their contributions to the country’s economic growth over the past five years.
Xi highlighted China’s upcoming five-year plan, which will focus on accelerating self-reliance in science and technology. This comes in response to increasing restrictions imposed by the US on access to high-tech items, including semiconductors.
China’s growing influence on the world stage was also emphasized by Xi, who noted the country’s hosting of high-level political events and exchanges in the past year.
However, tensions between China and Taiwan escalated with China conducting military drills around the island in response to a planned arms sale by the US to Taiwan. Xi reiterated China’s stance on Taiwan’s sovereignty, stating that reunification is inevitable.
In a separate address, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te vowed to resist China’s expansionist ambitions and strengthen the island’s self-defence capabilities.
