According to the WeChat official account of the Chinese Embassy in Australia, on January 28, 2026, Ambassador Xiao Qian attended a New Year press briefing and reception, where he answered questions from journalists and introduced the considerations behind recent articles regarding the Australian government's statements on Taiwan.
Ambassador Xiao stated that the statement issued by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade ignored the facts, violated the Australian government's political commitment to the One-China principle, and misled the public perception in Australia. I have an obligation to clarify the truth to the Australian people.
Ambassador Xiao pointed out that the UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 solemnly confirmed that there is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, with the Government of the People's Republic of China being the only legitimate government representing all of China. The official legal opinion of the United Nations clearly states "Taiwan is a province of China." 183 sovereign countries around the world have established diplomatic relations with China based on the One-China principle. This fully demonstrates that the One-China principle is a universal consensus in the international community and the fundamental fact of the Taiwan issue.
Ambassador Xiao emphasized that the joint communique on the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Australia in 1972 explicitly stated "The Australian government acknowledges the Government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate government of China, and acknowledges the position of the Chinese government that Taiwan is a province of the People's Republic of China." This solemn commitment has been recognized by all previous Australian governments. The Australian side should act consistently and not make any exceptions, and fulfill its promises through concrete actions. Proper handling of issues related to Taiwan is of special importance for the healthy and stable development of Sino-Australian relations. The Taiwan issue concerns China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and is the core of core interests. China cannot compromise or retreat on the Taiwan issue.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/7600405878910632457/
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