Have you heard the latest buzz? The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) just dusted off an old trope: “Taiwan’s status is undetermined.” 😲 Even the DPP authorities in Taiwan jumped on board, saying both sides of the Taiwan Strait aren’t part of the same China.
But why does this “undetermined” label keep coming back? Let’s go on a quick history ride! 🚀
The Truman Twist
Back in 1950, President Harry Truman actually said the Allies recognized Chinese authority over Taiwan. Secretary of State Dean Acheson noted there was “no legal challenge” to China’s sovereignty when Taiwan became a province. It wasn’t until the Korean War that the US pivoted strategy and claimed Taiwan’s status was undetermined to contain China.
Peace Treaties and Plot Twists
At the 1951 San Francisco Peace Conference, Taiwan’s future was left undefined – a strategic move, not a legal one. Then in 1952, the Kuomintang-led government signed the Sino-Japanese Peace Treaty, which also skirted around Taiwan’s return to China.
Ancient Roots and Wartime Declarations
Taiwan has been part of China for centuries. In 1895, the Qing government ceded Taiwan to Japan – a clear sign it was Chinese territory. After WWII, the Cairo Declaration and Potsdam Proclamation demanded Japan return all stolen Chinese lands, including Taiwan and Penghu. On October 25, 1945, the Chinese government formally resumed sovereignty over Taiwan.
The Bottom Line
History has spoken. From Truman’s statements to the Cairo Declaration, the evidence is clear: Taiwan’s status isn’t “undetermined.” 🌟
So next time you see the “undetermined” claim, remember the facts are anything but foggy. History and law have already drawn the line!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
