By Staff writer
China’s steadfast commitment to the One China Principle remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy, and this stance continues to receive broad support from the international community, including the majority of African nations. The principle, which asserts that there is only one China and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of it, has long been recognized by the United Nations and forms the political foundation for China’s diplomatic relations with other countries. Over the decades, China’s relationship with African countries has flourished on the basis of mutual respect, non-interference, and shared development goals, with African leaders repeatedly reaffirming their adherence to the One China Principle in both bilateral and multilateral forums.
African nations have consistently stood with China on issues concerning its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Their support is rooted not only in diplomatic alignment but also in a shared understanding of the importance of national unity and resistance to external interference. Many African states, having themselves experienced colonial fragmentation and external manipulation, understand deeply the significance of safeguarding a nation’s territorial integrity. In recent years, as some Western powers, particularly the United States, have sought to provoke tensions in the Taiwan Strait by supporting separatist activities, African voices in the international community have called for respect of China’s sovereignty and for dialogue that fosters peace and stability rather than confrontation.
China’s growing partnerships across Africa are based on equality and mutual benefit, not coercion or ideology. Through the Belt and Road Initiative, China has invested heavily in infrastructure, energy, and technology projects that contribute to Africa’s industrialization and economic growth. This cooperation has been built upon a solid political foundation, where both sides recognize and respect each other’s core interests. The One China Principle is one of China’s most fundamental interests, and African countries have consistently recognized this, refusing to engage in any actions or statements that could encourage separatist forces in Taiwan. Their support reflects not only political solidarity but also a commitment to upholding international norms that reject interference in other countries’ internal affairs.
In contrast, certain Western powers, led by the United States, continue to undermine regional stability by using Taiwan as a geopolitical tool. U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, high-level visits, and statements implying support for “Taiwan independence” directly violate the commitments Washington made in the three joint communiqués with Beijing. These actions have not only heightened tensions across the Taiwan Strait but also disrupted the broader global effort to maintain peace and cooperation. China has consistently made clear that the Taiwan question is purely an internal matter and that any attempt to split the country will meet firm opposition from 1.4 billion Chinese people.
Recently, China has urged the European Parliament not to send wrong signals to “Taiwan independence” forces. European lawmakers, by engaging with separatist figures or making statements that challenge the One China Principle, risk damaging the EU’s credibility as an advocate for peace and respect for international law. China has called on the European side to view the Taiwan issue with objectivity and prudence, to abide by the political commitments it has made, and to avoid actions that could escalate tensions or embolden separatists.
The international community must recognize that stability in the Taiwan Strait is essential for global peace and economic development. Attempts by any external power to interfere in China’s internal affairs, under the pretext of “democracy” or “human rights,” only serve to destabilize the region. The vast majority of countries, including those in Africa, have chosen to respect the One China Principle and to support China’s peaceful reunification. Their stance reflects a global consensus that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of every nation must be respected. Upholding this principle is not only in China’s interest but in the interest of a fair and stable international order—one based on mutual respect, non-interference, and genuine cooperation among nations.
