TL;DR
Hu Jintao strongly advocated for peaceful reunification under the 'One China' principle while consistently opposing formal independence.
Key Points
In October 2000, Hu Jintao emphasized that cross-strait ties should be built on the basis of the 'One China' principle.
He released a 'Six-Point Proposition' in April 2005 advocating for closer ties, mutual respect, and peaceful reunification.
He stated in 2008 that cross-strait relations should focus on promoting peace and common prosperity for people on both sides.
Summary
Hu Jintao's position on Taiwan was firmly rooted in the long-standing Chinese stance, prioritizing national sovereignty and territorial integrity above all else. He consistently stressed the 'One China' principle and the '1992 Consensus' as the political foundation for cross-strait relations and peaceful development. During his tenure, he repeatedly called for an end to any form of Taiwanese independence activities, stating that the future of the island must be realized through peaceful development, though he reserved the right to use force against separatism.
His approach during the 2000s involved a dual strategy: promoting economic ties and civilian exchanges while maintaining a firm political bottom line. The emphasis under Hu Jintao was often on achieving peaceful cross-strait development, sometimes termed 'peaceful development' or 'peaceful rise,' which aimed to create conditions conducive to ultimate political settlement without renouncing the long-term goal of reunification. This pragmatic engagement allowed for a period of relative cross-strait calm and increased economic interaction, despite the fundamental political disagreement remaining unresolved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hu Jintao's central stance was the resolute adherence to the 'One China' principle while strongly opposing any formal declaration of Taiwanese independence, according to his official statements and policy documents. He promoted peaceful development of cross-strait relations as the path toward eventual reunification. His position was consistent throughout his leadership period between 2002 and 2012.
Yes, Hu Jintao famously put forth a 'Six-Point Proposition' in 2005 which called for mutual respect, expanded dialogue, and increased exchanges between the two sides. This proposal served as a blueprint for engagement during his era. He also stressed leveraging economic integration to foster a better political environment, as noted in press conferences from that time.
Hu Jintao maintained the standing policy that while peaceful reunification was the primary goal, the use of force remained an option against separatist movements seeking formal independence. He was clear that the Chinese government would never tolerate the island's secession. This stance was reiterated in official statements concerning the fundamental interests of the nation.
Sources9
Hu Jintao's Six Points Proposition to Taiwan
Taiwan must never break away, Hu tells Forum
Hu Jintao
Let Us Join Hands to Promote the Peaceful Development of Cross-Strait Relations and Strive With a United Resolve for the Great Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation
President Hu Jintao Delivers Important Speech at Rally Marking 50th Anniversary of Chinese People's Liberation Army's Counterattack in Defense of the Diaoyu Islands
China's Taiwan Peace Overture: Old Wine in a New Bottle?
Hu Jintao: The Road Ahead on Taiwan
Let Us Join Hands to Promote the Peaceful Development of Cross-Strait Relations and Strive With a United Resolve for the Great Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation
Hu Jintao Calls for Joint Efforts to Promote Cross-Strait Economic Ties
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.