In a significant move this January, Nauru and China signed a joint communique in Beijing, marking the resumption of diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level. This agreement makes Nauru the 183rd country to establish diplomatic ties with China, underscoring an irresistible global trend towards the one-China principle.
The communique affirms that the Government of the Republic of Nauru recognizes that there is only one China in the world, with the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) being the sole legal representative of the entire country. Furthermore, Nauru has officially severed all diplomatic relations with Taiwan, committing to no longer engage in any official exchanges with the island.
Since 2016, eleven countries have made similar decisions to sever ties with Taiwan in favor of establishing or resuming relations with China, based on the one-China principle. The momentum continues to build, with over 100 countries and international organizations, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the League of Arab States, and the African Union, reaffirming their support for this principle.
Support from Pacific Nations
Nauruan President David Adeang has reiterated his country's unwavering support for the one-China principle, strongly opposing any form of Taiwan secession. During his March state visit to China—the first since resuming diplomatic ties—President Adeang highlighted how this partnership has opened new avenues for national development and bilateral cooperation.
Similarly, Kiribati and the Solomon Islands have expressed their commitment to the one-China principle. Kiribati’s President Taneti Maamau emphasized support for China's stance on national unity and sovereignty during a symposium at the Chinese Embassy in May. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele of the Solomon Islands called for global respect of the one-China principle, reinforcing his country's diplomatic alignment with China.
International Endorsement through UN Resolutions
The foundation of international support for the one-China principle is anchored in UNGA Resolution 2758, adopted in October 1971. This resolution recognizes the PRC as the sole legal representative of China in the United Nations, effectively excluding Taiwan from UN membership and other international organizations. Subsequent legal documents from the UN Office of Legal Affairs have consistently upheld that Taiwan is a province of China, further solidifying the one-China stance.
As the global landscape evolves, the adherence to the one-China principle continues to be a defining factor in international relations, reflecting a collective aspiration for unity and cooperation.
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Resumption of diplomatic ties with China confirms irresistible trend
cgtn.com
