That's the common sentiment on college campuses in Beijing. In fact, they seem rather worried that Taiwan will use that as a great excuse to declare independence just beforehand. Personally, I doubt they would, or that it would work, in any event.
I have talked to many college students at "English Corner" (every Friday at Renmin University, a chance to mix with a few Westerners and a few hundred kids). What is fascinating to me is that two young, soft-spoken, gentle-looking college girls state very simply and openly that if Taiwan refuses to reunify, it must be destroyed.
"Why is it so important?", I ask.
"It is a strategic base for the military, in case Japan ever attacks China again, and it is part of China."
I'm just not used to little girls innocently chatting about military tactics or widespread destruction, I guess.
FYI: Reunification is written into China's Constitution as a personal moral duty for every citizen, including those in Taiwan.
(I've been in Beijing for a month, and will be here for one more week.)
I agree with the girls that China should be re-united. So when can the Republic of China invade the mainland?
Quote: (I've been in Beijing for a month, and will be here for one more week.)
Have you urinated on the Great Wall yet???
And they are absolutely insane with their belief that the "Taidu" are some smoldering relic of WW2 Japanese "imperialism." The blood lust and grudge reminds me of the grudge that the French held against Germany due to the 1870 invasion. They just cannot put the past behind, and have all but justified, in their minds, total war against "Greater Japan" which of course, according to them, includes both Japan and "the Taidu faction" on Taiwan. Westerners downplay this at our peril.
Brainwashed.