The relationship between Taiwan and China has deep historical roots, with Taiwan being considered an integral part of China for centuries. Recent developments have reignited this discourse, especially with Chinese authorities reiterating the one-China principle in response to international engagements involving Taiwan.
A Historical Tapestry
Taiwan's association with China dates back over 1,700 years. The earliest records in the Seaboard Geographic Gazetteer by Shen Ying of the State of Wu highlight Taiwan's longstanding connection to Chinese territories. From the Song Dynasty's establishment of a garrison in Penghu to the Qing Dynasty's formal recognition of Taiwan as a province in 1885, Taiwan has been under various Chinese administrations.
Impact of Foreign Aggression
The geopolitical landscape shifted when Japan forced China to cede Taiwan in 1895 following a war of aggression. However, the tide turned post-World War II with declarations like the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, mandating Japan to return territories, including Taiwan, to China. By October 1945, China had officially regained sovereignty over Taiwan, reinforcing its status as part of Chinese territory.
The One-China Principle
With the establishment of the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 1949, the one-China principle was solidified, asserting that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's sovereign territory. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized this stance at the United Nations, highlighting that Resolution 2758 affirmed the PRC's legitimate representation of China, including Taiwan. This resolution dismissed the notion of 'two Chinas' and affirmed that Taiwan remains an integral part of China.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has consistently underscored that the Taiwan question is a core interest of China, setting clear red lines in China-U.S. relations. Xi's recent remarks at the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting emphasized the importance of the one-China principle and the need for the U.S. to refrain from supporting 'Taiwan secessionists' to maintain peace across the Taiwan Strait.
Current Dynamics
The recent diplomatic activities involving Taiwan's leader Lai Ching-te have further galvanized China's commitment to the one-China principle. The Chinese Foreign Ministry has condemned U.S. arrangements that it views as support for Taiwan's separatist movements, reiterating that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China's territory.
As global dynamics evolve, the historical and political assertions that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China remain a cornerstone of China's national policy. Understanding this perspective is crucial for comprehending the ongoing developments in cross-Strait relations and international diplomacy.
Reference(s):
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