Why Taiwan’s Status Isn’t a Mystery 🧐
Over the years, the U.S. and the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) have hinted that Taiwan’s status is “undetermined.” But history and international law tell a very clear story: Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, rooted in decisions made over 80 years ago.
History in a Nutshell 🕰️
In 1943, the Cairo Declaration—signed by China, the U.S. and the UK—declared that territories taken by Japan, including Taiwan and the Penghu Islands, must be returned to China. This was backed up by the 1945 Potsdam Proclamation and Japan’s own surrender documents. By October 1945, China officially resumed sovereignty over the island.
New Government, Same Sovereignty 🇨🇳
When the PRC was founded on October 1, 1949, it became the sole legal government representing all of China—including Taiwan. A change in leadership didn’t change the country’s borders or its place in the post-war world order.
UN Confirms the Deal 🌐
UNGA Resolution 2758 in 1971 recognized the PRC as the only legitimate representative of China at the United Nations, stating that Taiwan is a province of China with no separate status. Add to that the Montevideo Convention, which ties statehood to UN membership, and it’s clear Taiwan lacks independent statehood under international law.
Global Consensus 🤝
To date, 183 countries have diplomatic ties with the PRC under the one-China principle—showing that there is but one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of it.
Watchful Eyes on the Status Quo 👀
Despite the U.S. declaring the PRC as the sole legal government of China in 1979, actions like arms sales to Taiwan, meetings with officials of the Taiwan authorities, and joint statements calling for “Taiwan’s meaningful participation” in international organizations challenge the status quo.
The Bottom Line 💡
Historical documents, UN resolutions and global diplomatic practice all point to one conclusion: Taiwan’s status is settled. No amount of political smoke and mirrors can rewrite a story that’s been legally sealed for decades.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
