David Kuan Chou Chien
Ambassador of Taiwan to Belize

Dear Editor of Amandala Belize,

After reading the article written by Mr. Colin Hyde in your newspaper on January 13, 2023, titled “Our friend China should let our friend Taiwan be”, I would like to make the following statement.

Firstly, the Republic of China (Taiwan) is a sovereign and independent country, which was established in 1912. The Republic of China (Taiwan) and the People’s Republic of China (China) are not subordinate to one another. This is an objective fact and an internationally recognized status quo. With a population of 23.5 million and the territory of 36,200 square kilometers, Taiwan maintains its own national defense and conducts its own foreign affairs. It also enjoys substantive cooperation with nations around the world, including Belize, in a wide array of fields, including the economy, culture, education, agriculture, public health and technology. Furthermore, Taiwan holds a key strategic position in the world. It plays an indispensable role in contributing to global supply chains, addressing climate change issues, containing pandemic spreading, and other areas. This is an indisputable fact.

Secondly, Taiwan’s future can only be decided and determined by its 23.5 million people. Self-determination is an internationally recognized norm, and there is no country that can determine the future destiny of others. The Chinese Communist regime continues to falsely claim sovereignty over Taiwan in an attempt to eradicate the existence of the Republic of China (Taiwan). In fact, the Chinese Communist regime has never governed Taiwan for even a single day and Taiwan has never been part of the People’s Republic of China. Once again, this is an indisputable fact. Only the popularly elected government of Taiwan can represent the people of Taiwan in the international community. Taiwan’s status under international law is long established. China has no right to make pronouncements on Taiwan or interfere in its foreign relations.

Lastly, China has been threatening Taiwan to accept its false claim of “one China principle” by conducting live-fired military exercise and firing missiles test in the waters near Taiwan recently. China’s military intimidation of Taiwan has not only encroached upon Taiwan’s sovereignty but also undermined regional peace and stability. The international community should condemn China’s irresponsible activities and deter its hegemonic expansion. We would like to underscore that Taiwan is an indispensable member of the democratic camp and is determined to defend its democracy and freedom in the face of China’s authoritarian and hegemonic aggression. As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan is working to maintain peace, stability and security in the world. We call on our allies and like-minded countries to stand with Taiwan to safeguard the value of democracy and freedom.