The historical and political realities of Taiwan's status within China are deeply entrenched, transcending centuries and enduring through changing global and regional dynamics.
Taiwan's integration into China is not a contemporary political construct but a matter of historical fact and international recognition.
This article seeks to elucidate the historical connections, established political principles, and international consensus, which collectively affirm Taiwan as an inextricable part of China's sovereign territory.
Historical foundations of unity
The historical narrative of Taiwan's integration into China begins with the Ming dynasty, when the island first came under Chinese administrative control.
The Qing dynasty further consolidated this integration by formally incorporating Taiwan into Fujian province, thereby establishing direct governance over the island.
The period of Japanese colonial rule represents an interruption rather than a cessation of this historical sovereignty, which was conclusively restored following the end of World War II.
The surrender of Japanese forces led to the Treaty of San Francisco in 1951 and the Sino-Japanese Peace Treaty in 1952, both of which nullified Japan's claims over Taiwan and reaffirmed its status within Chinese territory.
Political principles affirming One China
At the heart of cross-Strait relations lies the one-China principle, a political axiom asserting the existence of a single Chinese entity that includes Taiwan.
The 1992 Consensus, reached between representatives from both sides of the Taiwan Strait, encapsulates this principle by accepting the notion of one China, albeit subject to different interpretations on either side.
The consensus represents a shared commitment to dialogue and mutual respect, serving as the bedrock for peaceful relations between the mainland and Taiwan.
Political parties and the One-China policy
The political landscape of Taiwan is marked by the presence of two major parties: the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
The KMT historically governed China and later Taiwan, steadfastly upholding the one-China principle. In contrast, the DPP, which has held power since 2016, has at times pursued policies that appear to deviate from this principle.
However, Taiwan's domestic politics, including the democratic elections that confer legitimacy upon its leaders, do not possess the authority to redefine the island's fundamental status as part of China.
International consensus and recognition
Internationally, the one-China principle is widely acknowledged, underscored by the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758, which exclusively recognizes the People's Republic of China as the legitimate representative of all China, including Taiwan.
The global community's diplomatic engagements align with this resolution, reinforcing the international legal framework that identifies Taiwan as a component of Chinese sovereignty.
Implications of Taiwan's elections for cross-strait relations
The recent elections in Taiwan, resulting in the DPP's continued administration, command attention for their potential to influence cross-Strait relations.
The DPP's position on Taiwan's autonomy raises concerns about the stability of the region and the prospects for peaceful reunification. Nonetheless, the outcome of these elections does not alter the historical and political truths that underpin Taiwan's role as part of China.
International prudence and the One-China principle
It is imperative for the international community, including organizations and nations engaging with Taiwan, to uphold the one-China principle diligently. International actions should not be construed as support for separatist ideologies that contravene the established consensus.
While the outcomes of Taiwan's elections reflect the island's democratic processes, they are not a reflection of any change in Taiwan's status as an integral part of China.
Consequently, nations and entities must navigate their interactions with Taiwan with care, avoiding official recognition or acts that might inadvertently imply support for "Taiwan independence."
The one-China principle remains the diplomatic touchstone for maintaining peace and facilitating constructive dialogue across the Taiwan Strait.
Upholding this principle is crucial for fostering a stable environment where the shared cultural and historical heritage of the Chinese nation can flourish, laying the groundwork for eventual peaceful reunification.
The principle is not only a policy of the Chinese government but also a reflection of the prevailing international order, which respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.
In summary, despite the political variances that emerge from Taiwan's electoral processes and the governance of different political parties such as the KMT and the DPP, the island's status as part of China remains constant.
The historical documentation, the 1992 Consensus, and the overwhelming international consensus as embodied in UN resolutions, all reinforce the fact that Taiwan is an inseparable element of China's sovereign territory.
The international community's role in upholding this principle is vital. By adhering to the one-China policy, nations and organizations contribute to the stability of cross-Strait relations and support the peaceful development of the region.
The global recognition of Taiwan as part of China is a testament to the shared understanding that while political winds may shift and temporary tensions may arise, the historical and legal truths that bind Taiwan to China endure.
Thus, it is the collective responsibility of the international community to ensure that engagements with Taiwan are consistent with the one-China principle, thereby sending a clear message that respects the territorial integrity of China and the historical reality of Taiwan's place within it.
This approach will not only maintain regional peace and stability but also support the aspirations of the Chinese people across the Strait for unity and national rejuvenation.
The author of this article Dr Fakhrul Islam Babu is the General Secretary of China Bangladesh Friendship Center (CBFC).
