Taiwan Reasserts Sovereignty Amid China Protests Over Japan PM Meeting at APEC

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has firmly reaffirmed Taiwan's sovereignty and independence in response to China's diplomatic protests over a meeting between Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Taiwan's APEC envoy Lin Hsin-i at the recent APEC summit. Taiwan criticized China's misuse of the "one China" principle to interfere with normal diplomatic exchanges, emphasizing that China has never governed Taiwan and that such interference violates APEC's principle of equal participation among members. The meeting underscored Japan's support for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, along with backing Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations, reflecting shared democratic values and resistance to Beijing's coercion. Taiwan's envoy described the interactions at the summit as routine and customary diplomatic engagements, dismissing China's objections. Japan, despite lacking formal ties with Taiwan, remains a strong unofficial ally, with past Japanese officials suggesting closer security cooperation. Overall, Taiwan and Japan continue to strengthen their partnership amid China's ongoing diplomatic pressure and assert Taiwan's legitimate role in global affairs.