Alarm bells are ringing in Taiwan.
Chinese President Xi Jinping says the island's reunification with China is inevitable, warning Beijing reserves the right to use force to accomplish its goal, if necessary.
For more on this and other news around the world we turn to our Ro Aram…
Aram… a strong warning from the Chinese leader so early in the new year.

That's right Mark…The Chinese leader has stepped up pressure on Taiwan since a pro-independence politician became president of the democratically governed island.
His latest remarks on Wednesday came on the 40th anniversary of the start of improved ties between the two nations.
He said peaceful reunification was the ultimate goal, but warned Beijing wasn't afraid to use force if necessary.
He added that Taiwan's independence would lead to disaster.

"The vast majority of Taiwan compatriots, regardless of what political parties, religions or social classes they are in, or whether they are soldiers or civilians or what region they are in, should be clearly aware that Taiwan independence can only lead Taiwan to a grave disaster…."

Xi also warned that foreigners should not interfere in the matter of Taiwanese independence.

"……The Taiwan question is part of China's internal affairs that concerns the core interests of China and the national feelings of the Chinese people. It brooks no interference from outside."

Taiwanese leader Tsai Ing-wen rejected Xi's comments.

"………I hereby reiterate that Taiwan will definitely not accept 'One country, two systems'……….China should not try to make Taiwanese people succumb to them with repression and threats….."

Beijing still sees Taiwan as part of China's sovereign territory despite the island's breakaway from the mainland at the end of the Chinese Civil War in 1949.
However, Taiwan considers itself a sovereign state with its own democratic political system.