The Federal Government has expressed full support to “One China” principle, saying this is at the core of its strategic partnership with China.

Beijing sees Taiwan as a province and aims to deny it any of the trappings of an independent state. It has threatened to use force if Taiwan formally declares independence.

A joint statement signed by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria and China, Geoffrey Onyeama and Wang Yi respectively, said Nigeria ceases to have any official relationship or engagement in any official capacity with Taiwan.

It said that the Nigerian government recognizes that there is only one China in the world with Taiwan as an integral part of its territory.

The statement reaffirmed both Nigeria and China’s commitment to respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Chinese government, according to the statement, appreciated the recent measures taken by Nigeria and reaffirmed its commitment to actively developing China-Nigeria strategic partnership across the board, accordingly.

Meanwhile, Onyeama, in a joint press conference with Mr Yi said Taiwan would stop enjoying any diplomatic privileges because it is not a country that is recognized under international law.

Daily Trust