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Why the fuss? The US, Taiwan and China -- a guide
Aug 10, 2020
Here is a recap of the key issues surrounding the delicate relations between the US, China and Taiwan.
- Bitter history -
The deep rift between China and Taiwan dates back to China's civil war, which erupted in 1927 and pitted forces aligned with the Communist Party of China against the Nationalist Kuomintang (KMT) army.
Eventually defeated by Mao Zedong's communists, KMT chief Chiang Kai-shek fled to Taiwan, which was still under KMT control.
From there, Chiang continued to claim the entirety of China -- just as the mainland claimed Taiwan.
Taiwan's official name remains the Republic of China, while the mainland is the People's Republic of China.
For years both sides still formally claimed to represent all of China, although that landscape has changed in recent decades.
Since the late 1990s, Taiwan has transformed from an autocracy into a vibrant democracy and a distinct Taiwanese identity has emerged.
The current ruling party, led by President Tsai Ing-wen, regards Taiwan as a de facto sovereign nation, not part of China.
The KMT, now in opposition, is more supportive of better ties with Beijing, especially on trade and maintains the idea that Taiwan is part of China.
- Why the fuss? -
Washington cut formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan in 1979, switching recognition to Beijing as the sole representative of China, with the mainland becoming a major trading partner.
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