China Reaffirms One-China Principle Following Taiwan Foreign Minister's Visit to Philippines

China has reaffirmed its commitment to the one-China principle in response to an article published by Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung in Philippine media, in which he called for support to advance global peace and prosperity. In a statement issued on Thursday, September 11, the Chinese embassy in Manila dismissed Lin as a "Taiwan independence separatist" and underlined that Taiwan is an inseparable part of Chinese territory. The embassy emphasized, "The Government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China." It further questioned the legitimacy of Lin's position, stating, "How can a province of China possibly have a foreign minister?"

The Chinese officials also alleged that Lin had entered the Philippines covertly with a Taiwanese delegation, a visit that was not officially acknowledged by the Philippine government. Beijing confirmed it had filed a formal protest with Manila regarding the visit.

This diplomatic episode follows last month's reaffirmation by the Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro, who restated the Philippines' adherence to the One China Policy. Lazaro clarified that the Philippines does not recognize Taiwan as an independent state, aligning with the stance that Taiwan is part of mainland China.

The Chinese embassy reiterated the strength of this principle, noting, "The one-China principle is unshakable. It is the political foundation on which China establishes and develops bilateral relations with 183 countries including the Philippines." This declaration underscores the ongoing geopolitical sensitivities surrounding Taiwan's international status and the Philippines' diplomatic positioning amid regional tensions.