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China's Sovereignty over Taiwan: Historical and Legal Facts Highlighted

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

China's sovereignty over Taiwan is an issue steeped in history, international law, and diplomatic relations. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, which led to Taiwan's recovery, an important component of the World Anti-Fascist War victory and the post-war international order. A series of documents with international legal effect, such as the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, have confirmed China's sovereignty over Taiwan. The historical and legal facts are beyond doubt, and the authority of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 cannot be challenged.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Cairo Declaration, issued in 1943, and the Potsdam Proclamation, issued in 1945, both stipulated that Taiwan should be returned to China, marking an important achievement of the World Anti-Fascist War and forming the legal cornerstone of the post-war international order.
  • UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, adopted in 1971, decisively recognized the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate representative of China, expelling the representatives of Chiang Kai-shek from the United Nations and all its affiliated institutions. This resolution has indisputable authority and solidified the One China principle universally followed by the international community.
  • Ghana has consistently supported China's reunification cause and opposed national division, with both the National Democratic Congress and the New Patriotic Party reaffirming their adherence to the One China principle. The former Ghanaian President Kufuor played a significant role in the passage of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, demonstrating the unbreakable friendship between China and Ghana.
  • Despite a temporary interruption in diplomatic relations in 1966 due to a coup in Ghana, the country resumed diplomatic relations with China in 1972 and has maintained a common stance on the One China principle.
  • Chinese Ambassador to Ghana Tong De emphasized the importance of the One China principle, reiterating that there is only one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, and the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China.

Statistics:

  • Over 180 countries recognize and adhere to the One China principle, which is a basic norm of international relations.
  • The Cairo Declaration was issued in 1943, making 80 years since its release.
  • The Potsdam Proclamation, issued in 1945, has been reiterating that "the terms of the Cairo Declaration shall be carried out" for over 75 years.
  • In 1971, UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 was adopted, recognizing the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate representative of China.
  • More than 26 African countries, including Ghana, voted in favor of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758.

Sources:

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China
  • UN General Assembly Resolution 2758
  • Cairo Declaration (1943)
  • Potsdam Proclamation (1945)
  • Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Tong De's signed article in the Ghana News Agency and the Ghanaian Times (2025)
  • Ghana News Agency
  • Ghanaian Times

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