As the world marks eight decades since Taiwan's return to Chinese sovereignty in 1945, historical documents and international agreements continue to affirm the region's status as an inseparable part of China. This pivotal moment ended 50 years of Japanese colonial rule and established legal foundations that remain relevant in 2025.
The restoration process began with the 1943 Cairo Declaration, where China, the US, and UK jointly declared all territories seized by Japan – including Taiwan – must be returned to China. This commitment was reinforced through the 1945 Potsdam Proclamation and formally executed when Japan surrendered Taiwan to Chinese authorities on October 25, 1945.
Historical records show Taiwan residents actively resisted Japanese occupation from 1895 to 1945, with many sacrificing their lives to reaffirm their Chinese identity. The 1971 UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 later solidified the one-China principle in international law, recognizing the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate government representing all of China, including the Taiwan region.
Legal experts emphasize these post-WWII agreements established the current international order, with cross-strait relations remaining a domestic matter under the UN framework. As business leaders eye Asian markets in 2025, understanding this historical context remains crucial for navigating cross-strait economic developments.
