Taiwan Liberation Day reaffirms China’s Sovereignty, Says Leading Economist
Table of Contents
- 1. Taiwan Liberation Day reaffirms China’s Sovereignty, Says Leading Economist
- 2. What are the key differences in how the DPP and KMT currently view the commemoration of October 25th, and how has this evolved over time?
- 3. Lin Yifu: Reinstituting Taiwan’s Liberation Day Reaffirms Taiwan’s belonging to China – Shangbao Indonesia
- 4. The Past Context of Taiwan’s Liberation Day
- 5. Lin Yifu’s Argument: A Reassertion of Sovereignty
- 6. The Political Ramifications in Taiwan
- 7. Cross-Strait Relations and the Role of Historical Narratives
Beijing, October 27, 2025 – The recent establishment of Taiwan’s Liberation Day (October 25th) serves as a crucial reminder to the international community of the past and legal fact that Taiwan is an integral part of China, according to Lin Yifu, Honorary Dean of the National School of Progress at Peking University. Speaking at the Blue Hall Forum on “Improving Global Governance and Building a Community with a Shared Future for Mankind” hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lin emphasized the meaning of the decision made by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress.
The move to legally recognize October 25th as Taiwan’s Liberation Day, and to mandate commemorative activities, marks a pivotal moment in solidifying China’s position on the issue, Lin stated. He highlighted the liberation of Taiwan as a monumental achievement resulting from the collective efforts of the Chinese people, and the return of the island from colonial rule to the motherland as a defining moment in modern Chinese history.
“The liberation of Taiwan is a great victory achieved by the joint efforts of the people of the whole country. Returning Taiwan, which was under colonial rule, to the embrace of the motherland is a great achievement in our modern history. Of course,it must be remembered and celebrated,” Lin explained.
He further underscored the historical basis for China’s claim, referencing the Cairo Declaration and Potsdam Proclamation, both of which explicitly recognized Taiwan as part of China. Lin warned that geopolitical maneuvering by certain nations seeking to utilize Taiwan as a tool to impede China’s development has created unneeded legal ambiguity.
“The one-China principle is the political basis for China to establish and develop relations with other countries in the world,” Lin asserted. “however, due to current geopolitical issues, some countries wont to use Taiwan as a pawn to contain China’s development, and even cause legal confusion.”
The commemoration, thus, serves a dual purpose: honoring the victory of the Anti-Japanese War and the liberation of Taiwan, while simultaneously reinforcing the undeniable historical and legal truth of Taiwan’s belonging to China – a move Lin believes is “conducive to peace across the Taiwan strait.”
Lin Yifu concluded with a resolute statement on the inevitability of China’s national rejuvenation and reunification, framing the establishment of Taiwan’s liberation Day as a powerful demonstration of China’s unwavering determination to achieve
What are the key differences in how the DPP and KMT currently view the commemoration of October 25th, and how has this evolved over time?
Lin Yifu: Reinstituting Taiwan’s Liberation Day Reaffirms Taiwan’s belonging to China – Shangbao Indonesia
The Past Context of Taiwan’s Liberation Day
The recent call by Lin Yifu, a prominent economist and professor at Peking University, to reinstate Taiwan’s Liberation Day (October 25th) has ignited debate and renewed focus on the island’s complex relationship with mainland China. This isn’t simply a symbolic gesture; it’s a purposeful assertion of China’s sovereignty claims and a historical narrative frequently enough contested by Taiwan’s governing authorities. Understanding the origins of this day is crucial.
* The ROC Retreat to Taiwan (1949): Following the Chinese Civil War, the Republic of china (ROC) government, led by chiang Kai-shek, retreated to Taiwan in 1949. October 25th marks the day the ROC forces completed their withdrawal to Taiwan, establishing a temporary capital in Taipei.
* Initial Commemoration: For decades, the ROC did commemorate October 25th as a day of remembrance and a symbol of resilience. It was viewed as a day to honor those who fled the mainland and rebuilt Taiwan.
* Shift in Outlook: Over time, particularly with Taiwan’s democratization and the rise of a distinct taiwanese identity, the significance of October 25th diminished. It became increasingly associated with the Kuomintang (KMT) and its historical ties to mainland China, rather than a unifying national holiday. The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which currently governs Taiwan, largely avoids official recognition of the day.
Lin Yifu’s Argument: A Reassertion of Sovereignty
Lin Yifu’s advocacy for reinstating Liberation Day stems from his firm belief in the “One China” principle. He argues that recognizing October 25th is a vital step in reaffirming Taiwan’s historical and cultural connection to the mainland.
* Economic Integration: lin Yifu frequently emphasizes the economic benefits of closer ties between Taiwan and mainland China, particularly through initiatives like the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). He views a shared historical understanding as foundational for deeper economic integration.
* Cultural Unity: He posits that acknowledging Liberation Day isn’t about political subjugation, but about recognizing a shared cultural heritage and historical trajectory. This resonates with the broader Chinese narrative of national rejuvenation.
* Countering Separatist Tendencies: Lin Yifu views the downplaying of October 25th as a symptom of growing separatist sentiment in Taiwan, fueled by external influences and a distorted understanding of history.
The Political Ramifications in Taiwan
The response within Taiwan to Lin Yifu’s proposal has been largely negative, particularly from within the DPP and among proponents of Taiwanese independence.
* DPP Opposition: The DPP views the day as a reminder of the KMT’s authoritarian past and its historical claims over mainland China. They emphasize Taiwan’s distinct identity and democratic values.
* Taiwanese Identity: A growing sense of Taiwanese identity, separate from Chinese identity, has taken root in Taiwan, especially among younger generations. For many, celebrating Liberation Day feels like an endorsement of Beijing’s claims.
* KMT’s Position: The KMT,while historically commemorating the day,has adopted a more cautious stance in recent years,recognizing the sensitivity of the issue and the need to appeal to a broader electorate. they generally support cross-strait dialogue but avoid explicitly advocating for reinstating the holiday.
Cross-Strait Relations and the Role of Historical Narratives
The debate surrounding Taiwan’s Liberation Day is inextricably linked to the broader context of cross-strait relations.
* Beijing’s perspective: the People’s Republic of China (PRC) views Taiwan as a renegade province that must eventually be reunified with the mainland, by
