The Interparliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) invited a “Taiwan independence” representative to speak in the European Parliament on Nov. 7, in an action that could torpedo the ongoing trade talks between Brussels and Beijing. The Chinese mission at the EU issued a strong protest.
“Despite China’s strong opposition and solemn representations, the European Parliament allowed leading ‘Taiwan independence’ figures such as [Taiwanese Vice President] Hsiao Bi-khim to enter its building to attend the summit and carry out ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist activities,” said a spokesperson for Chinese Mission to the EU. “This move seriously undermines China’s core interests, seriously violates the one-China principle, seriously interferes in China’s internal affairs, and seriously erodes the political mutual trust between China and the EU. China expresses its strong indignation and firm opposition, and has lodged stern representations with the EU side.
“The Taiwan question concerns China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. It lies at the heart of China’s core interests. It is a red line that must not be crossed. The one-China principle is a universal consensus of the international community and a basic norm governing international relations, as well as the prerequisite and foundation for the establishment and development of diplomatic relations between China and the EU. China once again solemnly urges the EU to abide by the one-China principle, stop backing and emboldening ‘Taiwan independence’ acts, stop sending wrong signals to ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces, take concrete measures to eliminate the negative impact, and take practical actions to respect and support China’s core interests and safeguard the overall picture of China-EU relations.”
