Taiwan has firmly rejected an offer from China promising energy security in exchange for accepting Beijing’s rule, calling it part of ongoing “cognitive warfare”.

Deputy Economy Minister Ho Chin-tsang said the proposal was “impossible”, stressing that Taiwan has already made preparations to secure its energy needs.

Energy Security Amid Global Disruptions

The offer comes at a time when global energy supplies have been disrupted by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, particularly affecting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Taiwan, which does not rely on China for energy, has secured alternative supplies, including from the United States, to ensure stability in the coming months.

China’s ‘Reunification’ Pitch

China said that “peaceful reunification” would strengthen Taiwan’s energy and resource security under the backing of a “strong motherland”.

Beijing has long promoted a “one country, two systems” model, though it has found little support in Taiwan.

Taiwan Rejects Sovereignty Claims

Taiwan’s government has reiterated that only its people can decide their future, rejecting China’s sovereignty claims.

Officials view such offers as part of broader psychological and political pressure tactics aimed at influencing public opinion on the island.

Rising Pressure From Beijing

China has continued to increase pressure on Taiwan through diplomatic, economic and military means, while keeping open the possibility of using force.

At the same time, Beijing has imposed restrictions on fuel exports to manage its own domestic supply concerns.

(with inputs from Reuters)