From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja
The People’s Republic of China has reiterated its position on One China policy, saying the independence of Taiwan is a serious threat to the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Chief of Political Section of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Zhu Songbo, said at a Media Salon on One China Principle as the Bedrock of China-Nigeria Relations in Abuja, that the One China principle meant that there is only one China in the world.
Zhu added that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory, and the government of the People’s Republic of China is the only legitimate government representing all of China.
Zhu further said the application of the One China principle is universal, unconditional, and unquestionable, saying that all countries that have diplomatic relations with China and all member states of the United Nations must unconditionally adhere to the One China principle.
He expressed appreciation to Nigeria for its stance on Taiwan, including the relocation of the Taiwan Trade Office out of Abuja.
“Nigeria has been adhering to the One China principle, which has been appreciated by China.
“We hope that Nigeria will continue to uphold this principle and support China’s efforts to achieve national reunification.”
Zhu also urged the media to be conscious of its use of language regarding Taiwan, calling on media practitioners to adhere to the principles of objectivity, fairness, and truthfulness when reporting on China and the Taiwan question.
“We hope that all of you will have a better understanding of China’s position on the Taiwan question and will continue adhering to the principles of objectivity, fairness, and truthfulness when writing reports about China,” Zhu stated.
He also expressed concern over attempts by some forces to promote Taiwan’s independence, describing such efforts as a serious threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
“The Taiwan independence separatist activities and external forces are a threat to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We firmly oppose any attempts to create a ‘two Chinas’ or ‘One China, One Taiwan’ scenario,” Zhu also said.
Director, Centre for China Studies, Charles Onunaiju, said the Chinese and Taiwanese are one people who share a common history and cultural heritage.
He noted that Nigeria’s position on the One China principle is sacrosanct as evidenced by its commitment to recognizing the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate government representing all of China.
“The Taiwan Trade Office in Lagos operates merely as a trade facilitation entity, and not as an embassy, with its primary purpose being to promote economic and commercial ties between Taiwan and Nigeria,” Onunaiju said.