In a significant milestone, China's President Xi Jinping extended congratulations to U.S. President Joe Biden on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. However, amidst the warm wishes, Xi issued a stark warning that the Communist nation would "surely be reunified" with Taiwan.

According to a statement from the Chinese Ministry, Xi acknowledged that the establishment of ties between China and the U.S. marked a major event in the history of bilateral and international relations. He emphasized that the cooperation between the two nations has not only benefited their respective populations but also contributed to world peace, stability, and prosperity.

However, in his televised New Year's address, Xi reiterated Beijing's determination to bring Taiwan, a self-ruled island, under its control. Despite splitting from China in 1949 after a civil war, Taiwan continues to be regarded by Beijing as Chinese territory. In recent years, China has increasingly ramped up its threats to achieve reunification, even through military force if necessary.

While China-U.S. relations have been tense, the Biden administration has taken steps to rebuild communication and trust. Officials from both countries have engaged in dialogue, and a high-stakes summit between Xi and Biden is scheduled for November in San Francisco. This summit is seen as an opportunity to ease tensions between the world's two largest economies.

Xi expressed his willingness to work with President Biden to steer the China-U.S. relationship forward for the benefit of both nations and their people. He emphasized the importance of promoting world peace and development in this effort.

In addition to his message to Biden, President Xi also exchanged New Year's greetings with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un. Both leaders declared 2024 to be a "friendship year" and announced a series of activities to deepen ties between the two countries. Xi expressed China's willingness to work with North Korea to enhance mutual trust, promote greater bilateral cooperation, and contribute to peace and stability in the region.

Furthermore, on New Year's Eve, President Xi exchanged greetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This year marks the 75th anniversary of China and Russia establishing diplomatic relations. Xi stressed the importance of continuously consolidating and developing ties between the two countries, emphasizing a permanent good-neighbourly friendship, strategic coordination, and mutually beneficial cooperation.

The year 2024 also holds significance for China as it marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China by Mao Zedong. Mao declared the establishment of the People's Republic of China on October 1, 1949, following a civil war that saw the defeat of Republic of China forces led by Chiang Kai-shek. The Republic of China subsequently fled into exile in Taiwan, which remains the formal name of the island.

As tensions simmer between China and Taiwan, and amidst efforts to rebuild China-U.S. relations, the world awaits the outcomes of the upcoming summit between President Xi Jinping and President Joe Biden.