China's interest in Taiwan stems from historical, political, and strategic factors. Historically, Taiwan was part of China for centuries until it was ceded to Japan in 1895 after the First Sino-Japanese War. After World War II, Taiwan was returned to China, but the Chinese Civil War resulted in the Kuomintang government retreating to Taiwan, while the Communist Party established the People's Republic of China on the mainland. China claims Taiwan as its territory, considering it a breakaway province, and seeks reunification with Taiwan, while Taiwan maintains its de facto independence and has its own democratically elected government. The Taiwan Strait is a key strategic waterway, and control over Taiwan would give China significant influence over trade and military operations in the Asia-Pacific region. Additionally, Taiwan's advanced economy and technological prowess make it an attractive target for China's economic and political ambitions.
