Taiwan is an inalienable part of China
The One-China principle is the fundamental premise and political foundation for China to establish and develop relations with all other countries
Recently, the leader of the Taiwan region has frequently made separatist rhetoric for “Taiwan independence”, falsely asserting that “the two sides of the Taiwan Strait should not be subordinate to each other”, inciting Taiwanese society to oppose the so-called “Chinese military threat and diplomatic suppression”. By fabricating so-called responses to the “Mainland threat” and other false narratives, he attempts to deceive the people on the island and mislead international opinion. Essentially, he is seeking “independence by relying on external forces” and “independence by military means”. Meanwhile, certain external forces have frequently played the “Taiwan card”, emboldening and supporting “Taiwan independence” separatist activities in an attempt to “contain China with Taiwan”. It’s obvious that “Taiwan independence” separatism and external interference are the major sources of instability in the Taiwan Straits.
Taiwan has been an inalienable part of China’s territory since ancient times and it has never been a country. China had already exercised effective jurisdiction over Taiwan during the Yuan Dynasty in the 13th century. In 1894, Japan launched the Sino-Japanese War and forced China to cede Taiwan. In 1943, China, the United States, and the United Kingdom issued the Cairo Declaration, which clearly stipulates that “all the territories Japan has stolen from China, including Taiwan, shall be restored to China”. Subsequently, in 1945, the Potsdam Proclamation, issued by China, the United States and the United Kingdom, stipulated in Article 8 that “the terms of the Cairo Declaration shall be carried out”. In the same year, Japan announced its surrender, unconditionally accepted the Cairo Declaration and ?the Potsdam Proclamation, and returned Taiwan to China. From then on, Taiwan has been under the jurisdiction of Chinese sovereignty. These documents, which have international legal validity, constituted an integral part of the post-war international order and also laid the legal foundation for Taiwan to be an inalienable part of China.
On October 1, 1949, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) was founded, becoming the successor to the Republic of China (1912-1949), and the Central People’s Government became the only legitimate government of the whole of China. The new government replaced the previous KMT regime in a situation where China, as a subject under international law, did not change and China’s sovereignty and inherent territory did not change. As a natural result, the government of the PRC should enjoy and exercise China’s full sovereignty, which includes its sovereignty over Taiwan. As a result of the civil war in China in the late 1940s and the interference of external forces, the two sides of the Taiwan Straits have fallen into a state of protracted political confrontation. But the sovereignty and territory of China have never been divided and will never be divided, and Taiwan’s status as part of China’s territory has never changed and will never be allowed to change.
At its 26th session in October 1971, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 2758, which undertook “to restore all its rights to the People’s Republic of China and to recognize the representatives of its Government as the only legitimate representatives of China to the United Nations, and to expel forthwith the representatives of Chiang Kai-shek from the place which they unlawfully occupy at the United Nations and in all the organizations related to it”. This resolution settled once and for all the political, legal, and procedural issues of China’s representation in the UN, and it covered the whole country, including Taiwan. It also spelled out that China has one single seat in the UN, so there is no such thing as “two Chinas” or “one China, one Taiwan”. The specialized agencies of the UN later adopted further resolutions restoring to the PRC its lawful seat and expelling the representatives of the Taiwan authorities.
Since the adoption of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758, the United Nations and its specialized agencies, as well as other intergovernmental organizations, have adhered to this resolution, consistently recognizing that Taiwan is a province of China and not granting any form of representation to the Taiwan authorities in the international community. The United Nations Office of Legal Affairs has issued multiple legal opinions clearly stating that “Taiwan is a part of China,” “Taiwan, as a province of China, has no independent status,” “the Taiwan authorities do not enjoy any form of governmental status,” and “if it is necessary to refer to ‘Taiwan’ in Secretariat documents, the term ‘Taiwan Province of China’ must be used.” For decades, the UN Secretary-General and spokespersons have also clearly stated that the UN adheres to the One-China principle guided by UN General Assembly Resolution 2758.
The One-China principle is the fundamental premise and political foundation for China to establish and develop relations with all other countries. All the 183 countries that have established diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China have politically committed to the One-China principle and incorporated it into their diplomatic communiqués, joint statements, and other political documents. And at the same time all of them severed so-called “diplomatic” relations with Taiwan. The China-US Joint Communique on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations, published in December 1978, states: “The Government of the United States of America acknowledges the Chinese position that there is but one China and Taiwan is part of China.” It also states: “The United States of America recognizes the Government of the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal Government of China”. This is a political commitment by the United States, forming the political foundation of Sino-US relations and being the original meaning of the US One-China policy.
No matter how the situation on the island of Taiwan changes, no matter who is in power, it cannot change the fact that both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one China, nor can it change the basic pattern and development direction of cross-strait relations, nor can it stop the historical trend of China’s eventual reunification. Whoever in Taiwan seeks “Taiwan independence” is splitting China’s territory and will be severely punished by history and law.
Since taking office, the new leader of the Taiwan region has clung to the “Taiwan Independence” party platform, stubbornly stuck to the “Taiwan Independence” separatist stance, refused to recognize the One-China principle and the “1992 Consensus”, and has even tried to align and cooperate with external forces. By fabricating false narratives such as the “Mainland threat”, and spreading false information to attack and smear the Mainland, he has attempted to incite confrontation between the two sides of the Taiwan Straits.
Currently, some external forces are trying to play the “Taiwan card”, using Taiwan as a pawn to contain China’s development and progress and to hinder the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. As a signatory of the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, the United States should be well aware of the historical and legal fact that Taiwan belongs to China. However, in the 45 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the United States, the United States has repeatedly reneged on its commitment not to support “Taiwan independence”, openly conducted military contacts with Taiwan under the pretext of “arms sales” and “military assistance”, heavily armed Taiwan, and emboldened “Taiwan independence” separatist forces to seek independence. The attempt is to obstruct China’s reunification and is doomed to fail.
The Taiwan issue is China’s internal affair and the core of China’s core interests. Pakistan is China’s ironclad brother and strategic partner, and successive Pakistani governments have consistently and firmly supported China’s stance on the Taiwan issue, adhering to the One-China principle, recognizing Taiwan as an inalienable part of China’s territory, and supporting the Chinese government’s efforts to achieve national reunification. China highly appreciates this. We believe that regardless of the changes in the situation in the Taiwan Straits and the international landscape, Pakistani friends will firmly support the Chinese people’s just cause of opposing “Taiwan independence” separatist activities and striving for national reunification, implement the important consensus between the leaders of the two countries through practical actions, and work together with China to build a closer China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future in the New Era. -Courtesy: The Nation
The writer is the Consul General of China in Karachi.
CPC’s strategy in transforming China into global technology leader
CPC Background: The Communist Party of China (CPC) was founded in 1921 and has been a major political force in China since the 1949 revolution that established the People’s Republic of China. Over the past several decades, the CPC has played a leading role in the economic, social, and technological transformation of China.
In the late 1970s, under the leadership of Deng Xiaoping, the CPC began a series of economic reforms that opened China to the global economy and transformed it into a major economic powerhouse. This transformation has lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty and created a large middle class in China.
To meet the challenges of the digital era, the CPC has prioritized innovation and technology as key drivers of economic and social development. The “Made in China 2025” plan, for example, aims to develop China’s high-tech industries and make the country a global leader in areas such as artificial intelligence, ecommerce, highspeed train, electric vehicles and 5G technology.
In addition to its economic and technological achievements, the CPC has also created a strong military, which has played a key role in defending China’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. The armed forces are modernizing and expanding their capabilities, but the CPC maintains a policy of peaceful development and opposes aggression and militarism.
Overall, the CPC has been a major force in the development of China, from its earliest days to the present. While it has faced many challenges and controversies over the years, it remains a powerful and influential political organization that will continue to play a key role in shaping China’s future.
CPC Philosophy & Vision: The CPC is a socialist political party that believes in a form of democracy that is specific to the Chinese context. The CPC believes in “socialist democracy,” which emphasizes rule by the people, consultation, and collective decision-making, rather than the more individualistic approach of liberal democracies.
The party’s position is that democracy should be combined with and guided by Marxism-Leninism, and that the state should represent the interests of the working class and the people. In practice, this means that the CPC has a dominant role in Chinese politics, with most high-level government officials being members of the party.
In practice, dominant socialist political parties often characterize Marxist-Leninist democracies, with the apparatus of the state being used to promote socialist and working-class interests.
Overall, the CPC faces complex challenges as it seeks to maintain economic growth, modernize the country, and maintain social stability while also addressing the concerns and needs of its citizens and navigating complex international relations.
The CPC has sought to balance the benefits of market-oriented economic reforms with the need for strong government intervention and control. This approach has helped China achieve rapid economic growth and development over the past few decades.
Strategy for Global Leadership: State-owned enterprises (SOEs) play a vital role in the Chinese economy as they are owned and controlled by the government and are often involved in key industries such as energy, telecommunications, and transportation. There are several reasons why SOEs continue to play a prominent role in China’s economic development.
The Chinese government has implemented various reforms aimed at improving the performance and efficiency of SOEs, including efforts to increase transparency and accountability, promote mixed-ownership models, and encourage market-oriented reforms within the SOE sector.
Mixed-ownership models refer to a type of ownership structure where a state-owned enterprise (SOE) sells partial ownership or equity to private investors or other entities. This is aimed at increasing the efficiency and competitiveness of the SOE by introducing market competition and private sector management practices.
Under the mixed-ownership model, the SOE retains a controlling interest in the company, while the private investors or entities have a minority interest. This allows the SOE to maintain some degree of government control over the company while introducing new sources of capital and expertise. This type of ownership structure has been used in a variety of industries, including banking, energy, and transportation.
The use of mixed-ownership models is aimed at improving the performance and efficiency of the SOEs in these industries by introducing market competition and private sector management practices. In many cases, government control is necessary to achieve these goals, as allows for it centralized decision-making and can help prevent market failures. However, excessive government control can also lead to inefficiencies, corruption, and reduced economic freedom. Therefore, striking the right balance between government control and market-based mechanisms is important for ensuring sustainable economic growth and social welfare.
Targets for Excellence: The CPC has outlined several strategic goals and a future vision for China. These include to become a “great modern socialist country” by middle of the 21st century, building a “moderately prosperous society in all respects”, promoting economic development & innovation, improving people’s livelihoods, promoting social harmony & stability, developing a modernized military, protecting China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, encouraging environmental sustainability & green development, and strengthening international cooperation and global governance.
The CPC is committed to achieving these goals through a combination of centralized planning, market-based mechanisms, and cooperation with foreign countries. The party’s vision is of a strong, modern, and prosperous China that can play an increasingly significant role in global affairs while also maintaining its political and cultural identity.
The Chinese government has implemented a few policies and initiatives in recent years aimed at promoting innovation and technological developments. They are including the “Made in China 2025” plan, which aims to make China a world leader in high-tech industries, “Internet Plus” which focuses to promote the integration of the internet with traditional industries to create new businesses, establishment of special economic zones like Shenzhen, creation of the innovation funds and subsidies for high-tech startups, and promotion of science and technology education, including the establishment of world-class research universities.
The CPC has also emphasized the importance of innovation in the country’s overall development strategy and has identified it as a key driver of economic growth and development. The government has encouraged collaboration between the private sector, universities, and research institutions to promote innovation, and has supported the development of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, 5G, and quantum computing.
The Chinese government has outlined several long -term strategic goals for economic, social, and technological developments. Some of the key goals and initiatives include “Two Centenary Goals” for achieving a moderately prosperous society at the 100th CPC anniversary that was celebrated in 2021 and transforming country into a modern socialist society by the time of 100th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Energizing “Belt and Road Initiative, (BRI)”, to accelerate development and connectivity across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Invigorate the “Made in China 2025” plan, which aims to make China a global leader in innovative technologies. Promote environmental sustainability and green development through the development of clean energy and green industries and promote science and technology education at earlier stages in the schools and establish world-class research institutions.
Overall, the CPC’s emphasis on economic development has played a critical role in lifting millions of Chinese citizens out of poverty and promoting the country’s rise as a global economic power. While there have been some concerns about issues like income inequality and environmental sustainability, the party remains committed to its goal of building a modern, prosperous society through continued economic growth and development.
The writer is Executive Director, Sino-Pak Enterprise.
China’s role in world politics
If we examine global politics over the last twenty years, it becomes evident that significant progress has been achieved only by countries that have prioritized economic development. These nations have devoted considerable attention to human resource development, with a strong emphasis on knowledge, science, and technology. This shift has led the center of global politics to focus increasingly on economic affairs, encompassing economic relations, trade, investment, and both inter-regional and international cooperation. In the current era, states with stable, expanding economies and a robust, democratic political leadership hold substantial global importance.
China exemplifies this trend, having unprecedentedly integrated into the world’s economy and political landscape. China’s success can be attributed to effective leadership, ideological coherence, and the selfless dedication of the Communist Party. Since assuming power in 1949, the Communist Party of China (CPC) has adeptly navigated historical challenges, transforming China from a nation in flux to the world’s second-largest economy. With one-fifth of the global population residing within its borders, China provides social security and opportunities for over 1.42 billion people, establishing itself as a global powerhouse and a cornerstone of global politics.
Official data underscores the CPC’s growing international influence, with membership reaching 98.04 million by the end of 2022. The Chinese Communist Party has weathered various wars, famines, and social crises over the past century, consistently steering China through turbulent times and into a leading role on the world stage.
Under CPC leadership, China has ascended to become the world’s largest manufacturer, exporter, and the second-largest importer. China has maintained an impressive annual growth rate averaging 9.9%, significantly reducing poverty rates by 90%. The nation has also lifted 800 million people out of poverty, boasting two of the world’s ten largest banks and 61 of the top 500 global companies. China’s extensive highway network and creation of nine million jobs annually underscore its economic prowess and developmental trajectory.
China’s rise to the position of the world’s second-largest economy has markedly enhanced its role in promoting global peace, fostering development worldwide, and advocating for a harmonious global future. The CPC’s foreign policy initiatives, such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the BRICS mechanism, underscore its commitment to international cooperation. The China-Central Asia Summit has further bolstered regional cooperation.
China’s strategic global initiatives, including BRICS and the BRI, aim to elevate the development of member countries and enhance global connectivity. By 2049, the BRI’s extensive investments across more countries, primarily in less developed nations, promise significant economic advancements. China’s leadership in green finance reflects its commitment to sustainable development, evident in its establishment of “green zones” within the BRI framework.
Moreover, China actively promotes bilateral and regional cooperation, championing global economic growth through platforms such as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the China International Import Expo. Committed to supporting global governance and combating climate change, China continues to align its development agenda with global aspirations for a brighter future.
Since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the CPC has governed the world’s largest socialist country for over seven decades, transforming it from a poor and underdeveloped nation into a high-income economy. The CPC’s unparalleled achievements will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark in history. Since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, the party has successfully orchestrated the miraculous eradication of extreme poverty in a nation of 1.4 billion people, marking one of the most significant achievements in human history. Under CPC leadership, China has not only achieved its goal of constructing a moderately prosperous society in all respects but has also elevated its global prominence, playing an increasingly active role in international affairs. Over the past two decades, millions of impoverished rural Chinese have risen out of extreme poverty, a historic accomplishment that has astonished the world.
Since 2011, China has replaced the United States as the world’s largest exporter, marking a pivotal shift in global economic dynamics. These achievements are attributable to the CPC’s organizational vigor and unwavering commitment to national development and improvement.
Thanks to its successful economic policies, China has ascended to become the world’s second-largest economy, significantly enhancing its global influence. As a responsible and influential developing nation, China has consistently played a pivotal role in safeguarding global peace, promoting worldwide development, and advocating for a shared future for humanity. China has actively engaged in resolving global conflicts, offering diplomatic solutions to crises ranging from the Russia-Ukraine conflict to issues in Palestine-Israel and Saudi Arabia. China has consistently supported peace talks, advocated for political settlements, and proposed practical measures for stabilization and reconstruction in Afghanistan and northern Myanmar. Moreover, China has contributed to nuclear non-proliferation efforts on the Korean Peninsula.
China’s strategic global initiatives, including BRICS, Belt andRoad Initiative, and CPEC, aim to enhance global connectivity and elevate the development of member countries. China’s influence in the Middle East is rapidly growing, fueled by increasing demands for renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and electric vehicles. China plays a leading role in global investments and is a pioneer in green finance, exemplified by its creation of “green zones” within the BRI framework.
In addition to fostering bilateral relations, China’s diplomacy is dedicated to promoting regional cooperation and development. China continues to strengthen international relations, actively supporting global efforts to combat climate change, reduce poverty, and promote sustainable development. China remains committed to advancing the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative, building on the achievements of the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. China actively participates in various global economic platforms, including the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation , China International Import Expo, China International Consumer Products Expo, China International Fair for Trade in Services, and Canton Fair. By aligning its development goals with global interests, China collaborates with other nations to forge a brighter future for the world.
