Several Common Fallacies on the Taiwan Question

New york: The 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly recently concluded successfully, marking a significant milestone in the history of international diplomacy. This session was especially noteworthy as it commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory in the global anti-fascist war and the founding of the United Nations. Over the past eight decades, the UN has evolved into the most universal, representative, and authoritative intergovernmental organization in the world, with the international community widely supporting the UN-centered international system. According to News Agency of Nigeria, eighty years ago, following Japan's defeat, Taiwan was returned to China as an undeniable consequence of the global anti-fascist war, forming a crucial part of the post-war international order. Currently, the Taiwan Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities are persisting with a separatist agenda aimed at 'Taiwan independence', while a minority of countries assert that China's sovereignty over Taiw an remains unestablished, openly challenging the UN's authority and the post-war international order. The article addresses several common misconceptions regarding the Taiwan Question, starting with the fallacy that 'the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are not subordinate to each other.' Historically and legally, Taiwan has been part of China since ancient times, with administrative institutions established by the Chinese government in the region as early as the 12th century. Post World War II, international documents, such as the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, legally reinstated Taiwan as part of China. Another fallacy refuted is the claim that 'China's sovereignty over Taiwan has not been established.' The civil war following Japan's defeat led to political fragmentation, but the establishment of the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 1949 reaffirmed China's sovereignty, including over Taiwan. The article further dispels the misconception that 'UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 does no t establish the One-China principle.' Resolution 2758, adopted in 1971, affirmed that there is only one China, recognized the PRC as the sole legitimate government, and excluded the representatives of Chiang Kai-shek from the United Nations. Additionally, the claim that 'UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not determine Taiwan's status' is countered by the resolution's universal binding force, which is reflected in the international community's diplomatic practices and adherence to the One-China principle. The final fallacy addressed is the notion that 'now is the time for the UN to recognize Taiwan.' Resolution 2758 clearly stipulates that China's representation in the UN includes Taiwan, and attempts by Taiwan to achieve 'meaningful participation' in the UN have been consistently unsuccessful. The One-China principle has gained global consensus, with 183 countries, including Nigeria, establishing diplomatic relations with China based on this principle. Nigeria has consistently supported China's sove reignty and territorial integrity, opposing any form of 'Taiwan independence' and interference in China's internal affairs. China values the Nigerian government's firm stance on the Taiwan Question, which aligns with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. The China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership continues to deepen, serving as a model for China-Africa cooperation and Global South collaboration. China remains committed to strengthening its strategic communication and cooperation with Nigeria and hopes for global support in upholding the UN Charter's principles, safeguarding UN General Assembly Resolution 2758's authority, and supporting China's efforts toward national reunification.