Taiwan Question
China's Legal and Political Position
China considers Taiwan a breakaway province that must eventually be reunified with the mainland, a position it refers to as the "One China Principle." This is distinct from the "One China Policy" adopted by most states, including India, which acknowledges (but does not necessarily endorse) China's position while maintaining unofficial relations with Taipei. China's 2005 Anti-Secession Law explicitly authorizes military action if Taiwan declares formal independence or if peaceful reunification becomes impossible. Taiwan has been self-governed since 1949, with its own military, constitution, and elected government.
- China's legal basis for claim: Constitution of the People's Republic of China; Anti-Secession Law (2005)
- Anti-Secession Law: passed by China's National People's Congress; authorizes "non-peaceful means" if Taiwan declares independence or if prospects for peaceful reunification are "completely exhausted"
- Taiwan's official name: Republic of China (ROC), governed since 1949 by the government that withdrew from mainland China
- India's position: acknowledges One China Policy; maintains trade and cultural ties with Taiwan but no formal diplomatic relations
- UN membership: Taiwan lost its UN seat (held as "China") to the PRC in 1971 via UN Resolution 2758
● Tracked since February 22, 2026 · last seen June 25, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes