Taiwan Returns to Chinese Sovereignty 81 Years On, Mainland Media Publishes Satellite Imagery of Streets

Today marks the 81st anniversary of Taiwan's return to Chinese sovereignty. Mainland media have published satellite images of landmarks and streets in Taipei, emphasizing that every street is clearly visible. The Eastern Theater Command of the PLA has also published a themed poster to commemorate Taiwan's return, highlighting its historical significance. Since 1895, Taiwan was under Japanese rule before it was returned to Chinese sovereignty in 1945. Taiwan's liberation day was established as a national holiday starting from 2025.

Today marks the 81st anniversary of Taiwan's liberation, also the first anniversary of Taiwan Restoration Memorial Day established by mainland China. As CCTV releases satellite images of several landmarks and streets in Taiwan, including the Zhongzheng Memorial Hall and National Palace Museum in Taipei, the Chinese Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command shares a themed poster on WeChat, emphasizing, "Taiwan's restoration is a significant proof of China's recovery of sovereignty over Taiwan." After the Sino-Japanese War in 1895, Taiwan and the Penghu Islands were under Japanese colonial rule for 50 years. In 1945, following the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, Japan was required to return Chinese territories. On October 25, 1945, the Chinese War Zone Taiwan Province Surrender Ceremony was held in Taipei, marking Taiwan's return to Chinese territory and the restoration of Chinese sovereignty. In 2025, the National People's Congress of China passed a decision to establish October 25 as Taiwan Restoration Memorial Day, reminding people to uphold the One-China Principle and promote national reunification. CCTV released a 42-second video on October 25, showcasing satellite images of various landmarks and landscapes of Taiwan taken by the "Jilin-1" satellite, such as Taipei Zhongzheng Memorial Hall, Taipei National Palace Museum, Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, Tamsui River, Hualien Qingzui Coastal Scarp, Yilan Zhuangwai Township, Tainan Qinggongzai Fan-shaped Salt Pans, Chiayi Goodview Wetland, and Taipei Port. CCTV's news report states: "81 years later, the clouds on Alishan and the waters of Sun Moon Lake continue to reflect the same homeland. Following the 'Jilin-1' satellite, we look down from the heavens and see Taiwan, every street clearly visible." CCTV also notes that each inch of land expresses the shared origin between the two shores, the return of hearts and reunion, and remembering the restoration history allows us to appreciate Taiwan's natural beauty. Today, The People's Daily's Weibo account also writes: "Today, the 81st anniversary of Taiwan's liberation, also the first anniversary of the establishment of Taiwan Restoration Memorial Day in the country. Together, let's transmit: steadfast in our recognition of the Chinese nation, Chinese culture, and our great motherland, enhancing our determination and pride to be true citizens of China."

The establishment of Taiwan Restoration Memorial Day highlights the Chinese government's stance on the recovery of sovereignty over Taiwan and the promotion of national unification. This anniversary is also a reminder to uphold the One-China Principle and celebrate the cultural and geographical connection with Taiwan. The satellite images and detailed accounts provided by CCTV and the military authorities demonstrate the Chinese government's commitment to maintaining and asserting its control over Taiwan.

The commemoration of the 81st anniversary of Taiwan's liberation comes at a time when the political and social landscape in Taiwan and mainland China continues to evolve. The decision to establish a specific date to mark this historical event further underscores the complexity and ongoing nature of the China-Taiwan relationship. By emphasizing the shared cultural and geographical ties, the Chinese government aims to foster national unity and cultural identity while asserting its sovereign claim over the island.