Sansad TV: The Global Debate- U.S-China tensions over Taiwan | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

After US Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, China has retaliated furiously by conducting its largest-ever military drills around Taiwan.

One-China Policy:

• The One China policy, recognized by the US, asserts Beijing's position that there is only one China, with Taiwan as part of it. 
• Any country seeking diplomatic ties with Beijing must acknowledge "One China" and sever formal connections with Taiwan. Washington maintains an unofficial relationship with Taiwan, involving arms sales. 
• This policy differs from the "One China principle," emphasizing Taiwan and mainland China as integral parts of a single "China."

Background:

• Originating in 1949 after the Chinese civil war, the policy led to the Nationalists retreating to Taiwan and the Communists establishing the People's Republic of China. 
• Initially, many nations, including the US, recognized Taiwan. 
• However, diplomatic shifts in the 1970s favored Beijing, leaving Taiwan isolated. 
• Despite this, the US maintains significant ties with Taiwan, serving as its key security ally.

Winners and Losers:

• Beijing benefits most from the policy, isolating Taiwan diplomatically. 
• Despite this, Taiwan maintains economic and cultural ties globally and leverages its emotional relationship with the US. 
• The Taiwan independence movement opposes the One-China principle, seeking a distinct identity. 
• The US questions the policy's validity, sparking speculation about the future of US-China relations.

India's Response:

• India rejected the one-China policy since 2010. 
• It should cautiously welcome negotiations between the US and China while strengthening ties with major global powers, including the US, Russia, China, and Japan. 
• India insists on a one-India policy for any agreement on one-China.

Conclusion:

The one-China policy remains contentious for China and Taiwan. India's stance, as articulated by Late Sushma Swaraj in 2014, insists on reciprocity—a one-India policy from China for India to recognize one-China.