🎉 ARATS President Zhang Zhijun kicked off 2026 with a bold appeal: compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait should join forces for national reunification and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
In his New Year message in the first 2026 edition of Relations Across Taiwan Straits, Zhang extended warm greetings and best wishes to Taiwan compatriots on behalf of the Chinese mainland's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS). He noted that 2025 was a year when cross-Strait ties built up fresh momentum.
The Chinese mainland's ARATS, Zhang said, made new efforts to oppose "Taiwan independence" separatist activities, boost exchanges and cooperation, handle emergencies related to Taiwan, and protect residents' rights and interests.
As Zhang put it, "Both sides of the Strait belong to one and the same China and the same Chinese nation." He added that the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation will bring brighter prospects for Taiwan compatriots and fuel development across the region.
Looking ahead, the Chinese mainland will embark on its 15th Five-Year Plan this year, aiming to build a great country through Chinese modernization on all fronts. According to Zhang, these strides will provide a strong guarantee for the growth of cross-Strait ties and lay a solid foundation for reunification. 🚀🌉
Reference(s):
Compatriots across Taiwan Strait urged to boost national reunification
cgtn.com
