Beijing — When did Taiwan become the 20th province of China, and how has its history been portrayed over time? Qi Jialin, chairman of the Alliance for the Reunification of China, sheds light on these questions in a recent interview with CGTN.
According to Qi, Taiwan officially became a province of China during the Qing dynasty in 1885. “The Qing government recognized the strategic importance of Taiwan and upgraded its status from a prefecture of Fujian Province to a full province,” he explained. This move was aimed at strengthening governance and defense capabilities on the island of Taiwan.
However, Qi points out that over the years, the historical narrative surrounding Taiwan has been subject to distortions. “Certain groups have attempted to rewrite history for political purposes,” he said. “By downplaying the historical ties between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan, they seek to promote an agenda that separates the island from its historical context.”
He attributes these distortions to a combination of factors, including external influences and political motivations within the Taiwan region. “After 1949, especially, there has been a concerted effort to cultivate a distinct identity in Taiwan,” Qi noted. “Education curricula were altered, and historical facts were selectively presented to create a perception of separation.”
Qi emphasizes the importance of understanding the true historical relationship between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan. “Recognizing our shared history is crucial for fostering mutual understanding and paving the way for peaceful reunification,” he asserted. “It’s not just about correcting the record; it’s about building a foundation for future generations.”
The Alliance for the Reunification of China, which Qi chairs, advocates for the peaceful reunification of Taiwan with the Chinese mainland, emphasizing cultural and historical bonds. “We believe that by promoting accurate historical knowledge, we can bridge gaps and reduce misunderstandings,” Qi concluded.
The discussion with Qi Jialin highlights the complexities surrounding Taiwan’s historical narrative and underscores the significance of historical accuracy in shaping present-day relations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
