Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday highlighted his country’s advances in technology, including artificial intelligence, semiconductors, military equipment, and space exploration, while reiterating that Beijing intends to annex self-ruled Taiwan.
In his New Year’s Eve address broadcast by state media, Xi showcased images of humanoid robots performing kung fu, hydropower projects, and other innovations. “We sought to energize high-quality development through innovation,” he said, thanking the Chinese people for their contributions to economic growth over the past five years.
China is preparing to discuss its new five-year economic plan in March and aims to strengthen self-reliance in science and technology amid tighter U.S. restrictions on high-tech exports.
On Taiwan, Xi emphasized the shared cultural and historical ties across the strait, declaring, “The reunification of our motherland, a trend of the times, is unstoppable.” The remarks came shortly after China conducted two days of military drills around the island, in response to a planned U.S. arms sale.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te pledged to resist Beijing’s “expansionist ambitions” in his own New Year’s address.
Source: AP