'A bird's-eye view of our home': mainland spokesperson on Jilin-1's high-resolution satellite images of Taiwan island
Global Times
By Li Yawei Published: Nov 05, 2025 10:52 PM
"Taiwan is the motherland's treasure island. As the Chinese mainland's scientific and technological level continues to improve, we can measure our territory more accurately, guard our homeland more firmly, and embrace the future with greater resolve," Zhang Han, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said on Wednesday when asked to comment on views in Taiwan that the images of various locations on the island released by the commercial satellite "Jilin-1" showcase the Chinese mainland's satellite technological strength and firm confidence in complete national reunification.
As netizens put it, "This is a bird's-eye view of our home," Zhang said. From the towering Great Wall to the serene Sun Moon Lake; from the high-rises in Shanghai to the bustling Port of Taipei, these are all part of the magnificent landscapes of our motherland and the beautiful homeland of the Chinese nation, the spokesperson added.
"We sincerely welcome more Taiwan compatriots to come to the mainland for visits, to enjoy the magnificent landscapes, witness the scenery of the motherland, and feel the warmth of home," said Zhang.
Wang Zexi, a student from Taiwan who has lived in the Chinese mainland for nearly 10 years, shared with the Global Times on Wednesday that seeing the photos filled him with a sense of familiarity, as places like Sun Moon Lake were attractions he had visited in his childhood.
"When pictures were zoomed in, I could even pinpoint the streets I used to frequent," said Wang, adding, "It felt incredibly magical and thrilling!"
"With modern technology, we can see what's happening on Taiwan island, akin to how people in ancient times thought of their families by gazing at the bright moon," Zhang Wensheng, deputy dean and professor at the Taiwan Research Institute of Xiamen University, told the Global Times on Wednesday.
He said for many in the mainland, their geographical impression of the Taiwan region comes primarily from textbooks and lacks tangible imagery. The satellite images can provide them with a clearer and more concrete understanding of this treasured island, thereby deepening their emotional connection with Taiwan, he added.
On October 25, the Commemoration Day of Taiwan's Restoration, the official WeChat account "Jilin-1" published an article titled "A satellite view of Taiwan Province of China," stating that "Taiwan is an inalienable part of China" and every inch of Taiwan Province is full of vitality from the space perspective of "Jilin-1."
Taiwan news outlets such as udn.com and the China Times noticed the release. The report by China News was titled "Every street is clearly visible! Mainland's 'Jilin-1' satellite sees Taiwan island completely."
The released images were captured from over 500 kilometers in space by the "Jilin-1" video satellites, high-resolution satellites, wide-width satellites, and other models in the series, said Jia Hongguang, vice manager of Changguang Satellite Technology Co Ltd, the developer of the "Jilin-1" satellites, a local media outlet reported.
The images generally feature sub-meter resolution, meaning that local street views and layouts can be precisely identified, Jia said, adding that therefore, it is an easy task for "Jilin-1" to conduct comprehensive imaging of Taiwan Province.
In addition, the spokesperson also responded to a question about Gaode Map (also known as AMap) reportedly achieving full coverage in the Taiwan region.
Zhang Han said that while she did not have specific details, she wanted to say that "the pursuit of a better and more convenient life is a right shared by compatriots on both sides of the Straits."
With the development and innovation of science and technology, along with the upgrading and improvement of industries and services, an increasing number of mainland products and services are becoming daily choices for people on Taiwan island, Zhang Han added.
"We welcome such developments and hope that more and more Taiwan compatriots can enjoy high-quality products and services from the mainland," the spokesperson noted.
Wang said in daily life, he can genuinely experience the advancement of mainland technology, with conveniences such as mobile payment systems, transportation, and food delivery apps bringing significant convenience.
"I truly hope my friends and family in the Taiwan region can also enjoy these advanced products as soon as possible," Wang said.
The emotional resonance between compatriots on both sides of the Straits will continue to deepen as the mainland's strength in various fields, including the economy, culture, and military, develops, Zhang Wensheng said.
In turn, it will foster a stronger sense of cultural identity, as well as national and ethnic identity, the expert noted.
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