The concept of Taiwan’s reunification with the Chinese mainland often stirs spirited debate among some Western politicians and media. However, historical precedents worldwide provide compelling evidence that the long-anticipated reunification of Taiwan with the Chinese mainland promises to deliver substantial stability and economic prosperity, not just for the two societies across the Taiwan Strait but for all of East Asia.
Ideally, this reunification should unfold without further artificial delays caused by foreign third-party interventions. It should happen under the uniquely pragmatic principle of “one country, two systems”, thus ensuring a harmonious and mutually beneficial integration.
Drawing parallels from the successful reunifications of historically divided nations such as Germany (1990), Vietnam (1975), Italy (1871), Tanzania (1964), Yemen (1990), Cameroon (1961), and the United States — which decisively fought the 1861-1865 Civil War to halt the secession of 11 Southern states — there are compelling reasons to consider why Taiwan’s reintegration with the Chinese mainland would be immensely beneficial for both Asia and the global community.
1) Economic synergy and growth: Just as the reunification of Germany in 1990 catalyzed economic prosperity and anchored stability in Europe, Taiwan’s integration with the Chinese mainland would ignite a massive economic boom in Asia. Germany’s reunification brought together the industrial strength of West Germany and the untapped potential of East Germany, also eliminating the specter of instability. Similarly, Taiwan’s advanced technology sector, combined with the Chinese mainland’s vast market and innovative manufacturing capabilities, could spur unprecedented economic growth and technological breakthroughs, benefiting not just the two regions but all of Asia and human progress. The economic dynamism of a reunified Chinese nation would spur global optimism and faster world economic growth.
2) Enhanced regional stability: The 1975 reunification of Vietnam ended decades of conflict and paved the way for stability and economic growth in the Indochina region. German reunification symbolized the end of the Cold War’s division between East and West, fostering a more stable and unified Europe. Similarly, Taiwan’s reunification with the Chinese mainland would eliminate uncertainties and a major potential flashpoint in East Asia, thus fostering a more stable geopolitical environment. This stability would be a cornerstone for Asia’s long-term peace and development.
Taiwan’s reunification with the Chinese mainland would not only resolve the lingering vestiges of the 20th century Chinese Civil War, but would also represent a strategic imperative for the collective prosperity and harmonious future of East Asia. Embracing this vision with foresight and determination can herald an era of unprecedented peace and progress not only for Asia, but also for the world
3) Stronger global trade networks: Germany’s reunification reinforced its position as a global trade leader, benefiting the entire European Union. A reunified China will significantly boost world trade and improve global supply chain networks. Taiwan’s strategic location and robust trade infrastructure could serve as a critical node in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, complementing China’s role as a dynamic force in global trade, enhancing economic integration across Asia and beyond.
4) Increased investment and innovation: Integrating Taiwan’s technology and electronics sectors with the Chinese mainland’s vast resources and manufacturing prowess would spur an innovation renaissance for Asia. Increased cross-Strait investments and collaborative research and development efforts could push the boundaries of Asian technological advancement and benefit global industries.
5) Boost to global peace efforts: Historical precedents show that reunifications contribute to broader global peace. The reunification of the US, after mobilization of the decisive political will behind the 19th century American Civil War to stop separatist Southern states, marked a new era of stability with positive ripple effects globally. The 1964 peaceful reunification of post-colonial Tanganyika and Zanzibar to create Tanzania set a positive example for African unity and cooperation amid decolonization movements across the continent. Tanzania became a pillar of stability in East Africa, actively promoting peace and supporting liberation movements in neighboring countries.
The reunifications of Germany, Vietnam and Yemen contributed to stability and peace in their respective regions of Europe, Southeast Asia and the Arabian Peninsula. Similarly, Taiwan’s reunification with the Chinese mainland could set a powerful example of conflict resolution, encouraging other regions to end divisive separatist movements and having a far-reaching impact on Asian stability.
In conclusion, the concept of Taiwan’s reunification with the Chinese mainland is an idea whose time has undeniably arrived. This vision is fortified by numerous historical precedents worldwide, where successful reunifications have unequivocally fostered stability and prosperity. The economic synergies, enhanced regional stability, fortified trade networks, and rejuvenated sociocultural unity that would arise from this reintegration possess the transformative potential to establish Asia as a bastion of enduring stability and sustained economic growth.
Taiwan’s reunification with the Chinese mainland would not only resolve the lingering vestiges of the 20th century Chinese Civil War, but would also represent a strategic imperative for the collective prosperity and harmonious future of East Asia. Embracing this vision with foresight and determination can herald an era of unprecedented peace and progress not only for Asia, but also for the world.
The author is an award-winning writer, columnist for the Philippine Star and Abante newspapers, economics and politics analyst, and college teacher.
The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.