Raphael Oni
His Excellency Yu Dunhai, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria has reaffirmed China’s stance on the One-China Principle, emphasizing that Taiwan is an integral part of China. He calls for everyone to respect the One China Principle as he respond to media men in Abuja on Friday.
Dunhai highlighted historical facts and international laws that support China’s claim over Taiwan, including the Treaty of Shimonoseki, the Post-Taiwan Declaration, and the Post-Taiwan Proclamation.
The Chinese Ambassador noted that the 1971 UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 recognized the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal representative of China, expelling Taiwan from the UN. This resolution, supported by African countries, including Nigeria, solidifies the international consensus on the One-China Principle.
Ambassador Dunhai praised Nigeria for strictly abiding by the One-China Principle, citing the joint statement issued by President Bola Tinubu and Chinese President Xi Jinping. In the statement, Nigeria reaffirmed its recognition of Taiwan as part of China and opposed any form of Taiwan independence. You will recall that in January 2017, Nigeria correct the diplomatic blunder by chasing the Taiwan Trade Mission out of Abuja.
The Ambassador emphasized that the Taiwan issue is a core interest of China and a red line that should not be crossed. He urged media professionals and the public to be cautious in their reporting, avoiding language that could be perceived as recognizing Taiwan as a separate country.
He also warned against engaging with Taiwan’s unofficial representative office in Lagos, which has been known to advocate for Taiwan independence. He urged Nigerians to be vigilant and not provide a platform for the office to promote its ideas.
maintaining the One-China Principle, Nigeria and China can continue to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership, built on mutual respect and cooperation.
