Three notable diplomatic events took place recently, all relating to China: China and Norway normalized their bilateral relations, Mongolia promised to never again invite the Dalai Lama to visit, and the government of Sao Tome and Principe declared that it would sever so-called diplomatic ties with Taiwan.

The three countries all emphasized that they will stick to the One China principle, which is one of China's core interests, near to the hearts of over 1.3 billion Chinese people. The policy is also a prerequisite for other countries to maintain and develop friendly relations with China. China is pleased to see that Norway, Mongolia and Sao Tome and Principe are all getting back on the right track.

Bilateral ties between China and Norway normalize after 6 years

China and Norway issued a statement on the normalization of ties during Norwegian Foreign Minister Borge Brende's official visit to China on Dec. 19. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Foreign Minister Wang Yi also spoke with Brende, according to the website of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced its normalization of ties with China on the same day, according to a Reuters report, which added that ties between the two countries have been "frozen" since 2010.

Mongolia bans Dalai Lama's future visits

The Mongolian government invited the 14th Dalai Lama for a visit from Nov. 18 to 23, despite China's firm and strong opposition. The Mongolian Foreign Minister Munkh-Orgil Tsend told Mongolian media on Dec. 20 that the Dalai Lama's visit in the name of religion had a negative impact on Mongolia-China relations, and he regretted that impact.

Munkh-Orgil said that Mongolia is making efforts to restore China-Mongolia relations. Mongolia firmly supports the One China principle, and holds that Tibet is an inalienable part of China. The Tibet issue is China's domestic affair, in the eyes of Mongolia. Mongolia will continue to adhere to this principle, and never again invite the Dalai Lama to visit.

The government of Sao Tome and Principe cuts ties with Taiwan

The government of Sao Tome and Principe reportedly issued a statement on Dec. 20, declaring intentions to sever its "diplomatic ties" with Taiwan.

"We note that the government of Sao Tome and Principe issued a statement on Dec. 20 local time, announcing its decision to cut so-called diplomatic ties with Taiwan. China appreciates this and welcomes Sao Tome and Principe's return to the right side of the One China principle," said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying on Dec. 21.

Adhering to the One China principle is an inevitable trend that is in accordance with the will of the international community. China is always willing to develop friendly, cooperative relationships with other countries based on the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and the One China principle.

The 26th Session of the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 2758 in October 1971, making it clear that the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing China. The One China principle recognized in the resolution has become the general consensus of the international community.

China is always reasonable when it comes to international affairs. However, China has a firm bottom line when it comes to its core interests, which it will strenuously defend. The future is bound to be brighter as more and more nations accept this reality.