Taiwan Reiterates Sovereignty Amid China's Claim of One-China Principle

Strategic Insights -

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) reiterated the island's sovereignty and independence after Chinese President Xi Jinping claimed Taiwan as "China's sacred territory" on the eve of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC) anniversary. MOFA Spokesperson Jeff Liu emphasized that Taiwan has never been ruled by the PRC and its 23 million citizens uphold a free and democratic constitutional system. The Taiwanese government called on China to engage in pragmatic dialogue and build goodwill to foster favorable conditions for the development of cross-strait relations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) rejected China's claim of one-China principle, affirming the island's sovereignty and independence.
  • MOFA Spokesperson Jeff Liu stated that Taiwan has never been ruled by the PRC and its 23 million citizens uphold a free and democratic constitutional system.
  • Xi Jinping insisted on adherence to Beijing's "one-China principle" and the "1992 Consensus," opposing Taiwan independence and advocating for reunification.
  • The Taiwanese government called for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and participation in international organizations, free from Chinese interference.
  • The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) advocated for rational dialogue and the development of cross-strait relations based on mutual respect and goodwill.
  • Liu highlighted the need for Taiwanese athletes to be free from interference when competing in international events, such as the Olympics.
  • The Taiwanese government emphasized that its future must be determined by the Taiwanese people, not imposed by external forces.

Statistics:

  • The Taiwanese population is approximately 23 million citizens (Source: MOFA statement).
  • The PRC was founded on October 1, 1949 (Source: PRC anniversary celebration).
  • The Taiwan Strait separates Taiwan and mainland China (Source: geographical context).
  • Taiwan participates in various international organizations, including: the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and the World Health Organization (WHO) (Source: Taiwan's participation in international organizations).
  • Taiwanese athletes have faced interference during international competitions, including the Olympics (Source: MOFA statement).

Sources:

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) statement on September 30, 2023.
  • Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) statement on September 30, 2023.
  • Chinese President Xi Jinping's address on the eve of the PRC anniversary.
  • PRC anniversary celebration on October 1, 1949.