Taiwan may lose ‘high autonomy’ if Beijing has to use force to unite: China’s National People’s Congress

By Saadet Gokce

ISTANBUL (AA) - A deputy to China’s national legislature said Taiwan could lose a previously offered high degree of autonomy under Beijing’s rule if it is reunited with the mainland by force.

Li Yihumade the remarks during the country’s “two sessions” as the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) hold separate annual meetings.

“If it is a peaceful reunification … the arrangements may be more flexible than those of the special administrative regions (Hong Kong and Macau),” said Li, according to the South China Morning Post.

“If Taiwan moves towards separation or resists reunification, and the mainland government still needs to complete reunification, the arrangement may be downgraded, even to the level of Taiwan province,” Li added.

Hong Kong and Macau, under the “one country, two systems” framework, continue to have distinct legislative and judicial systems, along with representation in certain international organizations.

The NPC) is the country’s top legislative body, responsible for making and enacting laws, they meet annually.