China has criticized a visit by a delegation of German lawmakers to Taiwan, reiterating its opposition to official exchanges between the self-governing island democracy and countries that maintain diplomatic ties with Beijing.
Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said in Beijing on Monday that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China. She said the “One China principle” formed the “political foundation” of Sino-German relations.
“We urge the relevant individuals on the German side to adhere to the One China principle and stop sending wrong signals to Taiwan independence forces,” she said.
Beijing has long made clear that it seeks to bring Taiwan, formally known as the Republic of China, under its control.
Under Beijing’s “One China” policy, other countries are expected to recognize the People's Republic of China as the sole representative of China and Taiwan as part of its territory.
Germany maintains diplomatic relations only with Beijing while also pursuing other types of exchanges with Taiwan.
The five-member cross-party parliamentary delegation, led by Green lawmaker Till Steffen, arrived in Taiwan over the weekend. The aim of the trip is to expand cooperation with the island.
The delegation is to meet Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te on Tuesday. Beijing regards Lai as a separatist because his ruling Democratic Progressive Party supports Taiwan’s independence.
