Abuja: Ms Dong Hairong, Counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Abuja, has urged for stronger Nigerian support for the One-China principle to counter increasing separatist activities related to Taiwan. This call was made during a media salon titled ‘Understanding the One-China Principle and Its Role in Deepening China-Nigeria Strategic Relations’.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event was jointly organized by the Centre for China Studies and the Centre for Contemporary China-Africa Research. Dong criticized the recent visit of Taiwan leader, Lai Ching-te to Eswatini, labeling it as an attempt to advance separatist agendas internationally. She expressed concern over a recent visit by Nigerian journalists to Taiwan, where they purportedly engaged with officials from Taiwan’s external affairs department.
Dong asserted that Taiwan has been an integral part of China since ancient times, and emphasized that the People’s Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing China on the global stage. She pointed out that 183 countries, including Nigeria, have established diplomatic relations with China based on the One-China principle, referencing the 1971 United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 as the legal foundation affirming Beijing’s position on Taiwan.
She highlighted that Nigeria has consistently supported the One-China principle since establishing diplomatic relations with China in 1971. Dong stated that this principle remains the political cornerstone of China-Nigeria relations and broader China-Africa cooperation, urging all sectors of Nigerian society to firmly adhere to the One-China principle and uphold China’s core interests.
On the topic of cooperation, Dong underscored growing collaboration between China and Nigeria across various sectors including infrastructure, trade, agriculture, technology, and education. She mentioned significant projects like the Lekki Deep Sea Port and rail infrastructure, along with the newly inaugurated ECOWAS headquarters in Abuja, all accomplished with Chinese support. Additionally, Dong noted China’s recent introduction of zero-tariff treatment for exports from 53 African countries, including Nigeria, which is expected to expand market opportunities for Nigerian products like sesame, ginger, cocoa, and cashew nuts in China.
Dr. Segun Showunmi, a public affairs analyst, emphasized that Nigeria’s support for the One-China principle has significantly bolstered bilateral cooperation in infrastructure, trade, and economic development. Prof. Sheriff Ibrahim, Provost of the Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria, remarked that African countries support the One-China principle due to shared values around sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Mr. Charles Onunaiju, Director of the Centre for China Studies, described the One-China principle as reflective of historical truths and international diplomatic consensus. Prof. Sam Amadi, Dean of the Law Faculty at Ave Maria University, differentiated between the ‘One-China principle’ advocated by Beijing and the ‘One-China policy’ adopted by other nations, noting that while many countries recognize Beijing’s stance, they often maintain varying degrees of economic and trade relations with Taiwan.