For Canada to “recognize” Taiwan as things stand would be to re-recognize the Republic of China (ROC) from which it broke diplomatic ties in 1970. Canada’s “one China” policy already recognizes “Taiwan,” but not the ROC. After 50 years of the “one China” policy, Canada has far better relations with Taiwan than with the PRC. For 50 years Canada has always referred to Taiwan as “Taiwan,” not the “ROC” or “Chinese Taipei.” Nonetheless, Canadian governments always drag their feet on any advance in these relations. Canada can do several things to strengthen its relationship, give real support to Taiwan and help create the conditions for future Canadian “recognition of an independent state of Taiwan” when political developments in Taiwan make this possible.

Source: Taipei Times May 14, 2021 16:07 UTC