London - In a significant departure from its previous stance, the British parliament has officially recognized Taiwan as an "independent country" within an official document. This move carries substantial geopolitical implications, particularly during Foreign Secretary James Cleverly's ongoing visit to China this week. Notably, Cleverly's visit marks the first time a high-ranking British envoy has traveled to Beijing in five years.
The updated terminology has been introduced in a report unveiled by the influential foreign affairs committee of the House of Commons on August 29th. This decision has sparked tensions with Beijing, adding strain to the already complicated relationship between the two nations.
China has strongly criticized London's action, accusing it of distorting facts. A spokesperson from the Chinese foreign ministry called upon the British parliament to uphold the "one China" principle and to cease sending signals that endorse Taiwanese independence.
China has consistently denied Taiwan's status as a sovereign state, asserting that the self-governing democratic island falls under its territorial jurisdiction. Only thirteen nations across the globe officially recognize Taiwan's diplomatic status.
Key Highlights from the Report:
The report asserts that Taiwan possesses all the essential attributes to qualify as an independent nation, separate from China.
The committee report states, "Taiwan is already an independent country, under the name Republic of China." It further highlights that Taiwan fulfills the prerequisites for statehood, including a permanent population, well-defined territory, functional governance, and the capability to establish diplomatic relations with other states—lacking only greater international acknowledgment.
Alicia Kearns, the chairperson of the House of Commons foreign affairs committee and a member of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party, highlighted that this declaration within a UK parliamentary report is unprecedented. Kearns emphasized that while they acknowledge China's standpoint, the foreign affairs committee does not endorse it.
Kearns has called upon the foreign secretary to stand in support of Taiwan and advocate for its right to self-determination.
Taiwan's Reaction:
The Taiwanese foreign ministry expressed gratitude for the British parliament's backing. "We are grateful for the British parliament's support for Taiwan's status and international participation," a ministry spokesperson conveyed to Politico. Additionally, the committee's report critiqued the cautious approach of Prime Minister Sunak's government in supporting Taiwan.
The report recommended that the UK should consider collaborating with its allies to formulate sanctions, aiming to deter potential military activities and economic blockades orchestrated by Beijing, which maintains control over the island—a pivotal hub for 90% of the world's advanced semiconductors.
The committee further suggested that the United Kingdom could strengthen its ties with Taiwan by relaxing self-imposed limitations on interactions with Taiwanese officials, pointing to precedents set by the United States and Japan.