(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Ms Dong Hairong, Counselor, Chinese Embassy, Abuja, has called for stronger Nigerian support for the One-China principle to address growing Taiwan separatist activities.
Dong made the appeal on Thursday in Abuja during a media salon themed: “Understanding the One-China Principle and Its Role in Deepening China–Nigeria Strategic Relations”.
The event was jointly organised by the Centre for China Studies and the Centre for Contemporary China-Africa Research.
She criticised the recent visit of Taiwan leader, Lai Ching-te to Eswatini, describing it as a covert move aimed at expanding separatist activities internationally.
She also expressed concern over the recent visit of a group of Nigerian journalists to Taiwan, where they reportedly met officials of Taiwan’s external affairs department.
According to her, Taiwan has been an inalienable part of China since ancient times, while the People’s Republic of China remained the sole legitimate government representing China internationally.
“At present, 183 countries, including Nigeria, have established diplomatic relations with China on the basis of the One-China principle,” she said.
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Dong cited the 1971 United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 as the legal basis affirming Beijing’s position on Taiwan.
“The One-China principle has become a universally acknowledged norm and a solemn commitment made by diplomatic partners to respect China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” she said.
She also noted that Nigeria had consistently reaffirmed support for the One-China principle since diplomatic relations were established between both countries in 1971.
Dong added that the principle remained the political foundation of China-Nigeria relations and broader China-Africa cooperation.
“China sincerely expects all sectors of Nigeria’s society to firmly abide by the One-China principle and resolutely uphold China’s core interests and territorial integrity,” she said.
The envoy also highlighted growing cooperation between China and Nigeria in infrastructure, trade, agriculture, technology and education.
She referenced projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port, rail infrastructure, and the recently inaugurated ECOWAS headquarters in Abuja, built with Chinese assistance.
Dong also noted that China recently introduced zero-tariff treatment for exports from 53 African countries that have diplomatic ties with Beijing, including Nigeria.
According to her, the policy will provide broader opportunities for Nigerian exports such as sesame, ginger, cocoa and cashew nuts in the Chinese market.
Dr Segun Showunmi, a Public affairs analyst, said Nigeria’s support for the One-China principle had strengthened bilateral cooperation in infrastructure, trade and economic development.
“The benefits to Nigeria have been substantial,” he said, citing rail projects, airport expansion and the Lekki Deep Sea Port among major outcomes of China-Nigeria cooperation.
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Also speaking, Prof. Sheriff Ibrahim, Provost of the Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria, and Head of Contemporary China-Africa Research, said African countries continued to support the One-China principle because of shared values around sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“The One-China Policy has been entrenched into the deep-rooted foundation of China-Africa cooperation which defines trust, respect and shared future,” he said.
Ibrahim noted that 53 of Africa’s 54 countries had already adhered to the One-China policy, while Eswatini remained the only African country maintaining diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
Mr Charles Onunaiju, Director of the Centre for China Studies, described the One-China principle as a reflection of historical realities and international diplomatic consensus.
“The One-China Principle has been built around the unassailable pillars of history and existential reality,” he said.
Prof. Sam Amadi, Dean of the Law Faculty, Ave Maria University, distinguished between the “One-China principle” promoted by Beijing and the “One-China policy” adopted by other countries.
Amadi explained that while many countries acknowledged Beijing’s position, they often maintained varying levels of economic and trade engagement with Taiwan.
He advised African countries to avoid formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, while managing economic engagements in line with international norms and national interests.
(NAN)
