Taiwan Scoffs At China's Demand For "Peaceful Reunification"

China is not backing down on its plan to take over Taiwan. They have been making it very clear where they stand with their invasive flyovers and total disregard for Taiwan's sovereignty. But now they seem to be backpedaling a bit since Japan and Australia have joined in support of the island nation's independence. Chinese Leader XI Jinping is now demanding a "peaceful reunification," but Taiwan has no intention of becoming part of China. They said as much in Taiwan's National Day Speech.

The Chinese President's demand:

“Reunification of the nation must be realized, and will definitely be realized,” Xi vowed before an audience of politicians, military personnel and others gathered in the hulking chamber that serves as the seat of China’s ceremonial legislature.

“Reunification through a peaceful manner is the most in line with the overall interest of the Chinese nation, including Taiwan compatriots,” the leader added.

Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen's rebuttal:

"Addressing a rally held to mark Taiwan’s National Day in central Taipei, Tsai said she hoped for an easing of tensions across the Taiwan Strait.

She said her government will not “act rashly”, but said, “there should be absolutely no illusions that the Taiwanese people will bow to pressure”.

Taiwan will “continue to bolster our national defense and demonstrate our determination to defend ourselves in order to ensure that nobody can force Taiwan to take the path China has laid out for us,” she said in the speech outside the presidential office.

“This is because the path that China has laid out offers neither a free and democratic way of life for Taiwan, nor sovereignty for our 23 million people.”

Xi Jinping saw Taiwan's response and doubled down.

“No one should underestimate the Chinese people’s strong determination, will, and capability to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity."

So it looks like a peaceful reunification is not going to happen anytime soon. So we will see how long China remains civil.