Boris Johnson Advocates for Taiwan’s Statehood Recognition

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has called on Britain to reassess its stance regarding Taiwan’s statehood, asserting that the island’s claim is “far more robust” than that of Palestine. His remarks, made during his inaugural visit to Taiwan on October 7, 2023, come amid shifting dynamics in British foreign policy.

In a press conference held in the heart of Taipei, Johnson compared Taiwan’s situation to that of Palestine, referencing recent announcements by current Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer about potential recognition of Palestinian statehood by September. This acknowledgement, however, is contingent upon Israel taking meaningful steps to facilitate aid to Gaza, committing to a lasting peace plan based on a two-state solution, and ensuring no annexation of the West Bank.

China regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has not dismissed the possibility of using force for unification. In recent years, Beijing has escalated military pressure on the island while urging Taiwan’s few remaining diplomatic allies to sever ties. Currently, only 12 countries officially recognize Taiwan as a sovereign state. While Britain does not extend formal recognition, it maintains a permanent diplomatic presence in the region.

Johnson referred to international law, specifically the Montevideo Convention of 1933, which outlines four criteria for statehood: a permanent population, defined territory, a governing body, and the capacity to engage in international relations. He emphasized that Taiwan meets these criteria, stating, “They actually have a recognized government, they actually have boundaries that they control. They actually have a proper democratic system,” contrasting this with the situation in Palestine.

His visit marks him as the third former British prime minister to visit Taiwan, following Liz Truss in 2023 and Margaret Thatcher in 1992 and 1996. Johnson did not shy away from criticizing China’s aggressive tactics towards Taiwan, stating, “It does not deserve to be intimidated in this way. There’s no point in it, and I hope it stops as soon as possible.” He accused Beijing of employing “grey zone” strategies, which include sending naval vessels into Taiwanese waters and aircraft into its airspace.

Taiwan has developed into a vibrant democracy since the end of China’s civil war. Election campaigns are characterized by lively displays, with candidates often using creative methods to engage voters, including parading with oversized balloon replicas of themselves or dressing as local snacks. Although Taiwan’s constitution claims all of mainland China, amendments have limited its effective governance to the main island and surrounding smaller territories.

The prevailing sentiment among Taiwanese citizens is one of a distinct identity, with many identifying as Taiwanese rather than Chinese. Despite this, there remains a general preference for maintaining peaceful relations with China rather than making a formal declaration of independence, a position largely influenced by concerns over potential repercussions from Beijing.

President Lai Ching-te has consistently affirmed that Taiwan is already a sovereign state and does not require a formal declaration of independence from China. Summarizing his views, Johnson stated, “The ambitions and requests of the people of Taiwan are extremely modest. All they’re asking for is the right to be left in peace as a free democratic country and not bullied or coerced.”

As international dialogues surrounding statehood and recognition evolve, Johnson’s statements may contribute to a broader discussion on Taiwan’s place in the global community and the complex dynamics of its relationship with China.