China Increases Diplomatic Pressure on IPAC, Claims Co-founder

The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) has seen the departure of representatives from three member countries due to increased coercion from China, according to co-founder and executive director Luke de Pulford. Speaking at the 54th annual conference of the European Federation of Taiwanese Associations, de Pulford highlighted Beijing’s use of diplomatic pressure to undermine international support for Taiwan.

De Pulford revealed that lawmakers from Malawi, The Gambia, and the Solomon Islands have withdrawn from IPAC as a direct result of threats from China. He noted that Malawi’s president faced the possibility of a canceled visit to China unless the nation’s lawmakers renounced their membership in the alliance. Similarly, The Gambia encountered comparable threats, demonstrating China’s tactics in leveraging official exchanges to deter support for Taiwan.

Additionally, de Pulford mentioned that the Solomon Islands government was pressured to issue a statement endorsing the “one China” principle, which ultimately led to the withdrawal of one of its two lawmakers from IPAC. Currently, only Peter Kenilorea Jr remains as a co-chair from the Solomon Islands.

Systematic Coercion and Disinformation

The coercive actions from Beijing are not isolated incidents, according to de Pulford. He cited the IPAC summit held in Taipei last year, where China allegedly obtained a list of attendees in advance and intimidated members from eleven countries to stay away. He stressed that countries like Kenya are also experiencing ongoing pressure, with international allies who advocate for Taiwan facing significant challenges due to Beijing’s influence.

In addressing claims of financial misconduct, de Pulford refuted rumors suggesting that Taiwan had paid IPAC 8 billion euros (approximately US$9.3 billion) to secure a speech by Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim at the European Parliament. He categorically stated that the alliance has never accepted donations from the Taiwanese government, branding the allegations as “malicious disinformation.”

Furthermore, de Pulford pointed to IPAC’s recent intervention in blocking a bid from private equity firm RedBird Capital Partners to acquire the UK’s Daily Telegraph. This incident underscores the alliance’s substantial influence and independence from governmental control.

Calls for Support Amid Increasing Pressure

Despite its influence, de Pulford emphasized that international organizations and lawmakers supporting Taiwan are facing mounting political pressure from Beijing. He noted that the tactics employed by China are becoming increasingly direct and tangible. As a result, he called for enhanced support from Taipei to aid these international allies in their struggle against coercive diplomacy.

The situation highlights the ongoing geopolitical tension surrounding Taiwan and the challenges faced by those who advocate for its recognition on the global stage. As countries navigate their relationships with China, the actions of IPAC and its members will continue to play a critical role in shaping international discourse regarding Taiwan’s sovereignty and support.