For a country to establish itself on the world map, it is essential that it first gains independence and adopts its won identity. Although Taiwan can hardly be blamed for not trying its best to break away from its past and look towards a modern and independent future, the connections with the past have continuously impeded this tiny Asian bloc from gaining proper recognition.
On September 30, Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Part (DPP) approved a resolution asserting separate identity from China. This is a bold move in the face of stern opposition from China and somewhat reluctant aid from international superpowers such the USA.
Taiwan broke away from mainland China almost 60 years back as an aftermath of the civil war and have slowly but steadily been establishing the modern dictums of democracy and elections. So much so that Taiwan has even been granted autonomy but as Taiwan and its politicians have discerned much to their woe, autonomy and complete independence are not synonymous to each other.
China still considers Taiwan as its territory and uses the formal name Republic of China. The United Nations too refuse to recognize Taiwan as a country and the US takes virtually the same view except in the fact that it supplies defensive weapons to Taiwan. Although international approval and appreciation for Taiwan’s steady economic progress has been lauded, the larger fraction of the international community is not eager to get into the controversy of whether to grant Statehood to Taiwan.
But Taiwanese President Chen Shui-bian is confident that before his term in office expires, Taiwan will gain recognition as an independent nation. His ruling DPP passed the resolution on Saturday and has also called for a referendum on its sovereignty but haven’t been too forceful about it for apparent fears of arousing China’s wrath.
While the general consensus suggest that most Taiwanese want a complete break up with relationships with China, the opposition party in Taiwan is heavily leaned towards staying in connection with China, With such subtle divisions, Taiwan could have a long, long journey ahead before it stamps its independence on the world map.
Image Soure: Ibiblio
Source: USA Today
