Beijing's interest in Taiwan is not emotional. It's as realist as it gets. During the Opium Wars, foreign invaders occupied many of the mainland's ocean ports.

Beijing's interest in Taiwan is not emotional. It's as realist as it gets. During the Opium Wars, foreign invaders occupied many of the mainland's ocean ports. Taiwan, as part of the First Island Chain, represents a critical strategic asset for those wishing to control mainland China.