President Xi Jinping promises party congress "Use of force" on Taiwan

Beijing: President Xi Jinping of China told the opening of the Communist Party Congress in Beijing that China would use force when it comes to the issue of Taiwan, according to AFP.

During the speech, Xi Jinping mentioned Hong Kong's transition from "chaos to governance" as a pointer to its success in silencing dissidence in the former British colony of 156 years.

Xi Jinping told the delegates that China would "never commit to abandoning the use of force" on Taiwan where China faces opposition from a large number of people.

Xi was quoted by the news agency AFP as saying that resolving the Taiwan issue is a matter for Chinese people themselves and must be resolved by Chinese people alone.

He added that China will strive for the prospect of a peaceful reunification with the greatest sincerity and greatest efforts but will not abandon the use of force.

China claims the self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and is ready to reclaim the country using force if necessary.

In apparent reference to USA, Xi condemned "separatism and interference" on Taiwan where a visit by US house of representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi in August angered China.

As for Hong Kong, imposition of a national security law in 2020 led to silencing dissidence in the city where protesters once daringly came out in their hundreds.

Giving a strong message to the US and the west, Xi added that reunification of Taiwan must be achieved and will be achieved.