Explained: Why the Taiwan Question is the First Red Line in China-U.S. Relations

Recent tensions between China and the United States have once again highlighted the central role of the Taiwan question in their bilateral relations. The Chinese Foreign Ministry recently condemned the United States for arranging a “stopover” for Lai Ching-te, leader of Taiwan region, underscoring that the Taiwan question remains the first red line that cannot be crossed in China-U.S. ties.

Background of the Taiwan Question

To understand the significance of this red line, it’s important to delve into the historical context. Taiwan has been an integral part of China since ancient times, with references dating back over 1,700 years to the Seaboard Geographic Gazetteer by Shen Ying during the Three Kingdoms period (220-280).

However, in 1895, following the First Sino-Japanese War, the Qing government was forced to cede Taiwan and the Penghu Islands to Japan. This situation remained until the end of World War II. In 1943, the Cairo Declaration, issued by China, the United States, and the United Kingdom, stipulated that Japan should return all territories stolen from China, including Taiwan.

After Japan’s surrender in 1945, the Potsdam Proclamation further reinforced this position, and China officially resumed sovereignty over Taiwan on October 25, 1945.

The One-China Principle

The one-China principle asserts that there is only one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, and the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. This principle is widely recognized by the international community, with 183 countries establishing diplomatic relations with the PRC and acknowledging this stance.

In 1971, United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 affirmed the one-China principle, restoring all rights to the PRC and recognizing it as the only legitimate representative of China at the UN.

U.S. Commitments on the Taiwan Question

The United States has made several political commitments regarding the Taiwan question. In the Shanghai Communiqué of 1972, the U.S. acknowledged that all Chinese on either side of the Taiwan Strait maintain there is but one China and that Taiwan is a part of China.

Further, in the Joint Communiqué on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations in 1979, the U.S. recognized the government of the PRC as the sole legal government of China and acknowledged the Chinese position that there is but one China and Taiwan is part of China.

In the 1982 Joint Communiqué, the U.S. reiterated its commitment to these principles and declared its intention to gradually reduce its arms sales to Taiwan.

Current Implications

China’s stance on the Taiwan question is clear and firm. Any actions that appear to challenge the one-China principle are met with strong opposition. The recent “stopover” of Lai Ching-te in the United States has been viewed by China as a violation of existing agreements and a crossing of the red line in China-U.S. relations.

The State Council Taiwan Affairs Office has urged the U.S. to adhere strictly to the one-China principle and the three China-U.S. joint communiqués to maintain stability in bilateral relations.

Conclusion

The Taiwan question remains a sensitive and pivotal issue in China-U.S. relations. Understanding its historical roots and the commitments made by both sides is essential for comprehending the complexities of this relationship and the importance of respecting the established red lines.

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