Xi Jinping's 2026 New Year Speech: Taiwan Reunification 'Unstoppable' Amid Tech Push

Is the 'Chinese Miracle' entering its most assertive chapter yet? On December 31, 2025, President Xi Jinping delivered a New Year’s address that balanced a call for economic resilience with a firm warning over territorial sovereignty. As 2026 approaches, Beijing’s focus is clear: consolidating internal strength to navigate a complex global landscape.

Xi Jinping 2026 New Year Speech: The Mandate for Taiwan

According to the South China Morning Post, President Xi described Taiwan’s reunification with the mainland as an "unstoppable trend." He emphasized the deep historical and cultural ties between the two sides, stating that people across the strait are bound by ties "thicker than water."

This rhetoric follows intensified military activity. On Monday and Tuesday, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) conducted large-scale drills around the island, which Beijing described as a warning to separatist elements.

Launch of the 15th Five-Year Plan and Tech Supremacy

Beyond geopolitics, Xi highlighted the start of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030). He praised China's recent strides in self-reliance, specifically noting advancements in AI, chip development, and aerospace technology. These sectors are seen as vital to maintaining China's competitive edge against Washington.