Graphics: Taiwan's historical and legal status as part of China

A Chinese mainland spokesperson has voiced firm opposition to Lai Ching-te's U.S. "stopover" during his trip to so-called "diplomatic allies" in the Pacific.

Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, emphasized on Sunday that no matter what tactics Lai and Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities use to advance their "Taiwan secession" agenda, they will not shake the firm international commitment to the one-China principle nor stop the overriding historical trend toward China's reunification.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated China's stance on Monday, saying China firmly opposes any form of official interaction between the U.S. and the Taiwan region, and firmly opposes any form of U.S. moves to aid or abet Taiwan secessionists and their secessionist activities.

The timelines below present historical and legal facts showing that Taiwan is an integral part of China.