By Ladi
Mr Zhu Songbo, Director, Political Section, Chinese Embassy in Nigeria said that achieving peaceful reunification and One Country, Two Systems approach is key to addressing the Taiwan question.
Zhu said this during a media salon on the “One-China Policy as the bedrock of China-Nigeria relations” on Thursday in Abuja.
He affirmed that open dialogue and mutual respect among all relevant parties are vital in achieving the goal.
Emphasising the essence of peaceful reunification, Zhu said, “We are eager to engage in constructive discussions with all stakeholders in Taiwan to bridge the political differences under the umbrella of the one-China principle.
Regarding the One Country, Two Systems framework, he explained how it serves as a mechanism to facilitate a harmonious reunification process.
He reiterated the Chinese government’s commitment to allowing Taiwan to maintain its societal structures and enjoy a considerable level of self-governance post-reunification.
“We maintain that after peaceful reunification, Taiwan may continue its current social system and enjoy a high degree of autonomy in accordance with the law.
“The two social systems will develop side by side for a long time to come.
“We will give full consideration to the realities in Taiwan and the views and proposals from all walks of life on both sides, and fully accommodate the interests and sentiments of our compatriots in Taiwan,” he said.
Zhu also underlined that the Taiwan Question is deeply rooted in historical contexts, primarily stemming from the Chinese Civil War, and remains an internal matter for China.
He condemned any attempts at promoting separatism or ‘Taiwan independence’, reiterating China’s steadfast support for the One-China principle and its opposition to any divisive actions.
Commending the Federal Republic of Nigeria for upholding the one- China policy, Zhu highlighted the long-standing diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria based on mutual respect and recognition.
‘Nigeria recognises the Government of the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal Government representing the whole of the Chinese people’.
“Since that, Nigeria has adhered to the one-China principle. China appreciates Nigeria’s effort, including the relocation of the Taipei Trade Office in Nigeria out of Abuja in recent years.
Prof. Sheriff Ibrahim, Head of the Department of Political Science and International Relations, UniAbuja and Director, Centre for Contemporary China-Africa Research emphasised the vital role of embracing peaceful reunification in strengthening China-Nigeria relations.
He urged Taiwan to align with this vision, asserting that any challenge to the One-China Policy would prove futile.
“Nigeria stands firm in its commitment to the one-China principle and will not entertain any disruptions to this enduring bond with China,” Ibrahim said.
