BEIJING—In a recent press conference, Mao Ning, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, emphasized that the global endorsement of the one-China principle is an “unstoppable” historical trend.
“Around the world, 183 countries have already established diplomatic relations with China on the basis of the one-China principle,” Mao stated on Monday, responding to inquiries regarding Palau’s diplomatic ties.
She pointed out that only a very small number of countries, including Palau, continue to maintain so-called diplomatic relations with the Taiwan region. “Such practice not only goes against the interests of these countries and their people and against United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 but also violates China’s sovereignty, and thus needs to be corrected,” Mao asserted.
Mao called on these nations to “fulfill their obligations under international law, stand on the right side of history, and make the right decisions that truly serve their fundamental and long-term interests at an early date.”
Citing a Chinese idiom, Mao remarked, “‘Those who suit their actions to the times are wise.’ We welcome seeing people with vision in these countries recognize the prevailing trend of history and the times, respect China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and choose to stand on the right side of international fairness and justice at an early date.”
“It’s never too late to make new friends,” she added, signaling China’s readiness to “open up new chapters” in relations with these countries on the basis of the one-China principle.
The one-China principle is a cornerstone of China’s foreign policy, asserting that there is only one sovereign state under the name China, with the Taiwan region being an integral part of it. While the majority of the international community has recognized this stance, a few countries maintain official diplomatic relations with the Taiwan authorities, a situation Beijing seeks to change.
Observers note that China’s proactive diplomacy reflects its ongoing efforts to consolidate international support and address what it views as challenges to its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The call to action by Mao Ning highlights the importance Beijing places on this issue in its foreign relations.
Reference(s):
China: Historical trend of endorsing one-China principle 'unstoppable'
cgtn.com
