TL;DR
Li Qiang firmly upholds the One China principle, pledging to resolutely crack down on separatist activities aimed at Taiwan independence.
Key Points
He reaffirmed commitment to the “one China” principle and the 1992 Consensus during the National People's Congress session in 2026.
He pledged that the People's Liberation Army would accelerate the development of advanced combat capabilities to support policy goals.
He stated an intent to apply in depth the Communist Party's overall strategy for resolving the Taiwan question in the new era.
Summary
Li Qiang, as Premier, has reiterated Beijing's hardline stance on Taiwan during key legislative sessions, emphasizing the commitment to national reunification. During the opening of the National People's Congress, he unveiled a defense spending increase while employing strident language toward the self-ruling island, over which Beijing claims dominion. Specifically, he vowed the People's Liberation Army would “accelerate the development of advanced combat capabilities” and stated China would “resolutely crack down on separatist activities” in Taiwan, an escalation from merely opposing them the previous year.
His report also stressed that the government will operate under the “one China” principle and the 1992 Consensus, while simultaneously opposing external interference. Despite this hawkish tone, Li also stated intentions to promote the “peaceful development of relations between the two sides of the strait” and encourage cross-strait exchanges and integration. The Premier's address dedicated significant attention to domestic economic goals, framing the Taiwan issue as one element within a broader strategic context, though reaffirming the official objective of “peaceful reunification” remains in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Li Qiang firmly upholds the One China principle and is committed to achieving national reunification with Taiwan. He has vowed to resolutely crack down on separatist activities that promote independence. Despite the firm stance, he also expresses an intention to promote peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
During the NPC opening, Premier Li Qiang used strong language regarding Taiwan, linking it to increased defense spending. He stated China would resolutely crack down on separatist activities. He also confirmed Beijing would continue to advance national reunification as a key goal.
Chinese authorities, as represented by Premier Li Qiang, do not rule out the use of force to achieve reunification. However, his official statements also emphasize promoting the peaceful development of relations between the two sides of the strait. The official objective remains 'peaceful reunification' officially.
Sources3
On the first day of China's National People's Congress ...
How Trump's War With Iran Could Be Good for Taiwan - TIME
China's Government vows to fight independence ...
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.