China Reaffirms One-China Principle as Lesotho Restates Diplomatic Support Amid Global Taiwan Debate

The Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of Lesotho Yang Xiaokun has reiterated China’s firm position on the One-China principle during recent diplomatic remarks that also addressed Taiwan’s participation in international institutions. His comments came ahead of the upcoming World Health Assembly scheduled to begin on May 18, where the issue of Taiwan’s participation has once again drawn global attention. The Ambassador stated that any attempts to promote “Taiwan independence” are destined to fail and stressed that China’s stance remains consistent across international platforms. He further emphasized that Taiwan’s participation in global organisations must be handled strictly under the framework of the One-China principle. His remarks reflected long-standing diplomatic messaging from Beijing regarding sovereignty, representation, and international recognition.

Mr. Yang Xiaokun stated that China firmly opposes the participation of the Taiwan region in the World Health Assembly, arguing that the conditions for such participation no longer exist. He linked this position to what China describes as separatist actions by the Democratic Progressive Party authorities in Taiwan, which he said undermine the political foundation for international engagement. According to his statement, the One-China principle remains the guiding framework for addressing Taiwan’s status in all international organisations, including the World Health Organization. He also reiterated that China’s position is “consistent and clear” and supported by established international resolutions. The Ambassador stressed that any participation of Taiwan must not contradict China’s sovereignty claims or international agreements that recognise Beijing as the sole legitimate representative of China.

In his remarks, the Ambassador referenced United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and World Health Assembly Resolution 25.1 as legal foundations that affirm the People’s Republic of China as the only representative of China at the United Nations. He argued that these resolutions form the basis of international consensus regarding China’s representation in global institutions. Mr. Yang also maintained that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, citing historical documents such as the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation as evidence of Taiwan’s return to China after World War II. These references were presented as part of China’s broader legal and historical justification for its position. He added that official United Nations documents have since referred to Taiwan as “Taiwan, Province of China,” reinforcing Beijing’s interpretation of international law and recognition.

The Ambassador further stated that recent diplomatic developments involving Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te demonstrate growing international alignment with the One-China principle. He referred to reported decisions by Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar to revoke overflight permissions for Lai’s aircraft en route to Eswatini, describing the actions as respect for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. These countries include Seychelles, Mauritius, Madagascar, and Eswatini. He argued that such developments reflect the continued strengthening of diplomatic adherence to the One-China principle in international relations. He also stated that more than 180 countries maintain diplomatic relations with China based on this principle, which he described as a widely accepted norm in global diplomacy.

Mr. Yang Xiaokun also placed the current debate within a broader historical and geopolitical context, stating that Taiwan has belonged to China since ancient times. He cited wartime and post-war agreements including the Cairo Declaration and Potsdam Proclamation as key documents supporting this position. He argued that these agreements, combined with post-1971 United Nations practice, form the legal and diplomatic foundation for China’s claim over Taiwan. He stated that the adoption of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 marked a turning point in international recognition of China’s representation. He concluded this part of his remarks by asserting that no external force can halt China’s reunification process and that global support for the One-China principle continues to expand, including across Africa.

In parallel, the Speaker of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Lesotho Tlohang Sekhamane reaffirmed Lesotho’s consistent support for the One-China principle. He stated that Lesotho continues to recognise the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate government of China. He also addressed ongoing global debates about Taiwan’s status, noting that some groups continue to promote narratives portraying Taiwan as an independent state. Sekhamane reiterated that Lesotho rejects such positions and aligns its foreign policy with the principle of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. He further emphasized that Lesotho values international cooperation grounded in non-interference and mutual respect among nations.

Diplomatic relations between Lesotho and China, formally established in 1983, continue to play a significant role in bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. The two countries maintain partnerships in infrastructure development, health, education, agriculture, and trade, reflecting a long-standing and multifaceted relationship. Lesotho has consistently supported China in international forums, while China has provided development assistance and investment support in key national projects. Both sides continue to frame their relationship as one based on mutual benefit and shared diplomatic principles. This cooperation highlights how the One-China principle remains closely tied to broader geopolitical and developmental engagements between the two nations.