In the News–A Spiritual Perspective January 31, 2011 Issue

China and Taiwan: time for healing

By Kate Dearborn

Significant tensions have long existed between Taiwan and the People’s Republic of China, but the reason for these tensions is hidden in the past. 

Following the Communist victory in mainland China, two million Nationalist Chinese—the Kuomintang (KMT)—fled to Taiwan in 1949 and established their own government. Declaring the Communist Chinese government illegitimate, the KMT claimed to be the government of China, as well as of Taiwan. China, meanwhile, has continued to claim sovereignty over Taiwan.

These tensions still exist. After over 50 years of independence, the Taiwanese see their island as independent and autonomous. China disagrees and attempts to block Taiwan from participating in international organizations as a separate entity. Given its size and economic power on the world scene, China often succeeds. 

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