Here's why:
* Mandarin is the standard language: While Mandarin is the most widely spoken dialect and is used in education, government, and media, it is not officially designated as the "dialect" of Chinese.
* Multiple dialects exist: Chinese has several major dialects, including Cantonese, Hakka, Wu, Min, and more. Each of these dialects has its own distinct pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar.
* Mutual intelligibility varies: The different dialects of Chinese are not always mutually intelligible. While Mandarin speakers may understand some Cantonese, it is not always the case, and vice versa.
* Cultural significance of dialects: Dialects are deeply rooted in Chinese culture and identity. They are not simply variations of a single language but represent distinct linguistic and cultural traditions.
Instead of an "official dialect," China focuses on promoting Mandarin as a common language for communication and unity. However, the diverse dialects of Chinese remain important aspects of Chinese culture and heritage.