Taiwan’s APEC Delegation Reports Safe Visit to Shenzhen

During a recent briefing, a senior official from Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the delegation attending an APEC meeting in China experienced a smooth and safe visit. The delegation, led by Jonathan Sun, the Director-General of the Department of International Organizations, attended the APEC Informal Senior Officials’ Meeting in Shenzhen last month without encountering any political suppression.

Details of the Visit

Sun stated that the trip was arranged in accordance with long-standing practices, ensuring that all Taiwanese delegates could participate without any issues regarding Taiwan’s sovereignty. This information comes in the context of ongoing discussions about Taiwan’s involvement in APEC, particularly following statements from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the “one China principle.”

On November 5, Lin Chia-lung, Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, warned that the government would implement “countermeasures” if China insisted on requiring Taiwan to adhere to the “one China principle” for APEC participation. Lin emphasized that Taiwan would not tolerate any political strategies aimed at undermining its role in international forums.

Future Participation Plans

Sun confirmed that Taiwan’s plans to attend the APEC Senior Officials’ Meeting scheduled for February 1-10, 2024, remain unchanged. Over the past year, Taiwan has actively engaged with China to secure assurances for its “equal, dignified and safe involvement” in APEC meetings and activities.

When asked about the necessity for Taiwanese delegates to apply for “Taiwan compatriot permits,” Sun noted that both sides had agreed on a mutually accepted model to facilitate the visit. He refrained from sharing additional details, citing confidentiality agreements.

This visit and the ongoing discussions illustrate Taiwan’s commitment to maintaining its presence in international discussions, despite the complex political landscape that often surrounds its participation in global forums.