China on Wednesday offered to provide energy stability to Taiwan if it agrees to come under Beijing’s rule, as part of renewed efforts to promote what it calls “peaceful reunification.”
The proposal comes as countries worldwide face energy supply disruptions due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and shipping constraints through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor.
Speaking in Beijing, Chen Binhua said reunification with mainland China would ensure Taiwan’s long-term energy and resource security.
“We are willing to provide stable and reliable energy supplies so that people in Taiwan can live better lives,” he said.
Taiwan, however, has consistently rejected Beijing’s sovereignty claims. The government maintains that only the people of Taiwan can determine their future.
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te said the island’s energy supplies remain secure for the coming months, with diversified sourcing strategies already in place. He added that additional liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports from the United States will begin from June.
Previously, Taiwan sourced about one-third of its LNG from Qatar, but has since moved to secure alternative suppliers amid regional instability.
China has long proposed a “one country, two systems” framework for Taiwan, a model widely rejected across Taiwan’s political spectrum. Beijing has also not ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control.
The latest offer comes as China, the world’s largest oil importer, has taken steps to secure its own energy supplies, including temporarily halting fuel exports to prevent domestic shortages.
The development highlights growing geopolitical tensions in the region, as energy security becomes an increasingly critical issue amid global conflict and supply chain disruptions.