World

China reiterates its One China principle on Taiwan over UN resolution

Euronews World · 2026-09-09

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: China reaffirmed its One China principle regarding Taiwan in response to comments from Taiwanese officials about a UN resolution, asserting that Taiwan is not a sovereign nation. • Why it matters: This dispute over the interpretation of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 highlights ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan, affecting international relations and geopolitical dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region. • What to watch next: Monitor developments in cross-strait relations and the international community's responses, particularly from major powers regarding their stance on Taiwan's sovereignty and China's claims.

**Title: China Reaffirms One China Principle Amidst UN Resolution Dispute Over Taiwan**

**Beijing, China – September 9, 2026** – In a recent statement, the Chinese government reiterated its commitment to the One China principle, emphasizing its stance on Taiwan's status following a renewed debate over the interpretation of a United Nations resolution. The remarks come in response to comments made by Taiwanese officials regarding UN General Assembly Resolution 2758.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning addressed the issue on Tuesday, asserting that “Taiwan has never been a country and will never be a country.” This statement reflects China's long-standing position that Taiwan is an integral part of its territory, a view that has been a source of tension in cross-strait relations.

The dispute centers on Resolution 2758, adopted in 1971, which recognized the People's Republic of China (PRC) as the sole legitimate representative of China at the United Nations. This resolution effectively expelled the representatives of the then-Kuomintang regime, led by Chiang Kai-shek, from the UN. Mao accused the Taiwanese government, referred to as the Lai Ching-te authorities, of misinterpreting the resolution to promote what she described as a separatist agenda for Taiwan independence.

Mao stated, “The rhetoric from Lai Ching-te authorities will not change the historical and legal fact that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and the same China.” She emphasized that the resolution has definitively settled the question of China's representation at the UN, dismissing any notion of "two Chinas" or a "one China, one Taiwan" framework.

In response, Taiwanese Vice President Lai Ching-te has argued that China is misrepresenting the resolution and has characterized Taiwan as a "sovereign independent nation." This assertion has been met with strong opposition from Beijing, which maintains that the One China principle is a fundamental norm of international relations.

Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, echoed Mao's sentiments, labeling the Democratic Progressive Party's stance as a “new two-state theory.” He reiterated that the One China principle is recognized by over 180 UN member states, underscoring Beijing's claim that most major powers, including the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Japan, India, and Australia, adhere to a one China policy. This policy acknowledges the PRC as the legitimate government of China while not explicitly endorsing Beijing's claims over Taiwan.

The ongoing tensions surrounding Taiwan's status and the One China principle continue to be a focal point in international relations, particularly as various nations navigate their diplomatic ties with both Beijing and Taipei. The situation remains complex, with the international community largely recognizing the PRC while also engaging with Taiwan on various levels.

As the discourse evolves, both sides appear entrenched in their positions, with Beijing firmly opposing any moves toward Taiwanese independence and Taipei advocating for its sovereignty. The implications of this dispute extend beyond the Taiwan Strait, influencing geopolitical dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region and affecting relations between China and other global powers.

The recent exchanges highlight the enduring complexities surrounding Taiwan's political status and the challenges of reaching a consensus on the interpretation of historical resolutions at the United Nations. As discussions continue, the international community watches closely, aware of the potential ramifications for regional stability and international diplomacy.

Source: Euronews World
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