China has criticized South Korean and Japanese lawmakers for visiting Taiwan against its opposition, lodging protests with both countries through their embassies. China has scolded South Korean and Japanese lawmakers for attending Taiwan’s leader’s inauguration ceremony, which China views as a provocation since they see Taiwan as part of their territory. The Chinese embassy in South Korea said that the visits went against the strategic partnership between China and South Korea. Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, considered a separatist by China, was sworn in on Monday after winning a January election. China strongly opposes these visits, as it claims Taiwan as part of its territory, leading to protests by their embassies in South Korea and Japan.
A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in South Korea stated that the visits to Taiwan by South Korean and Japanese lawmakers run counter to the China-South Korea strategic cooperative partnership. Similarly, the Chinese embassy in Japan criticized the visit, stating that it seriously contravened the spirit of Sino-Japanese commitments. China urged South Korea to take practical actions to safeguard the overall interests of bilateral relations and urged Japan to cease provocative political manipulation of the Taiwan issue. China also warned Japan to avoid causing further damage to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and their bilateral relations. Despite Japan congratulating Taiwan’s President, China has expressed concerns about Japan’s stance and its impact on their relationship.
Tensions between Japan and China have escalated recently due to various issues, including clashes over maritime claims in the East China Sea and China’s actions against Philippine claims in the South China Sea. Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary referred to Taiwan as an important partner and friend, emphasizing the need for deeper cooperation and exchanges at the non-governmental level. China, South Korea, and Japan are scheduled to have a trilateral summit in Seoul next week, where these issues are likely to be discussed. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the importance of seeking stable ties with South Korea despite recent difficulties, including tensions over Taiwan and other regional issues.
South Korea’s President has called Taiwan a global issue, not just a matter between China and Taiwan, highlighting the complexities surrounding the Taiwan-China relationship. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned against any attempts to challenge the one-China principle, asserting that Taiwan is part of China. Wang urged countries to respect China’s position on Taiwan and emphasized the need for stability and cooperation in the region. The visits by South Korean and Japanese lawmakers to Taiwan have strained relations between the countries and China, prompting diplomatic protests and calls for actions to safeguard bilateral relations. The upcoming trilateral summit in Seoul will provide an opportunity for further discussions on these issues and efforts to promote stability and cooperation in the region.
