The Dilemma of Chinese Recognition: Nelson Mandela Could Lead the Way.

As South Africa enters a new era in foreign relations, some crucial issues in foreign policy must still be resolved. One such issue is the question of formal ties with the two Chinas, the People's Republic of China (PRC) on the mainland and the Republic of China (ROC) on Taiwan. Both are important countries: the PRC is earmarked to become an economic superpower in the next century, but Taiwan is more sophisticated economically and politically. Unlike the PRC, the ROC is one of the biggest foreign investors in South Africa, creating many jobs. This is the kind of foreign partner that South Africa needs for the Reconstruction and Development Program. In this sense, South Africa cannot afford to choose between them. But dual recognition has not been possible so far, mainly because of the "one China" principle. Outside powers have been forced to choose between them. However, in a white paper on cross-Strait relations released in July 1994, Taipei called on Beijing to face up to the fact that China is a divided country under two separate governments. This creates positive opportunities for outside governments to approach this dilemma in a "face-saving" way, i.e., to avoid ignoring the PRC while not sacrificing the ROC. In terms of this policy document, the ROC would no longer compete with the PRC for the right to represent China. Taiwan declared categorically that Taipei will not sever ties with South Africa if Pretoria establishes diplomatic relations with Beijing. The ROC government will accept dual recognition and coexist with Communist China. Beijing may disapprove, but a post-apartheid South Africa under Nelson Mandela may do the world a favor if it pursues this line. Others may follow, but Mandela also needs international reassurance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]