During a press conference on October 25, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian responded to inquiries about the significance of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758, which was adopted 53 years ago on that date, restoring the People’s Republic of China’s legitimate seat in the UN.
A journalist raised the question regarding the recent claims by some international figures suggesting that the resolution did not resolve Taiwan’s status and advocated for Taiwan’s “meaningful participation” in UN activities. Lin pointed out that on October 25, 1971, the 26th UN General Assembly overwhelmingly passed Resolution 2758, which recognized the government of the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate representative of China in the UN and expelled representatives of the Taiwan authorities from the organization and its associated bodies.
He emphasized that this resolution decisively addressed the issue of representation for all of China, including Taiwan, asserting that it clearly ruled out the existence of “two Chinas” or “one China, one Taiwan.” As an inseparable part of Chinese territory, Taiwan has no basis, rationale, or right to participate in the UN or other international organizations that require sovereign state membership. Lin stated that on matters of this principle, there are no gray areas or ambiguous spaces.
He criticized certain Western forces for deliberately misinterpreting Resolution 2758, spreading false assertions that it did not resolve Taiwan’s status, and supporting secessionist activities that threaten peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Lin denounced any attempts to deny the one-China principle or distort the authority and validity of Resolution 2758 as a regression in history and a challenge to the post-World War II international order, which he believes is destined to fail. He asserted that China’s reunification is an inevitable historical trend that no individual or entity can obstruct.
Lin further stated that the restoration of the People’s Republic of China’s legal seat in the UN holds significant importance not only for China but also for the UN and the world at large. For over 50 years, China has collaborated with nations around the globe to uphold international fairness and justice, contributing significantly to the UN’s mission and global peace and development. He reiterated China’s commitment to the authority and status of the UN, with increasing cooperation across various fields. Lin concluded by highlighting China’s determination to pursue a path of peaceful development and reform, aiming to provide new opportunities for the world through its continued progress, while promoting genuine multilateralism and building a community with a shared future for humanity.
