China warns European Parliament on Taiwan resolution: “Act prudently”
China has issued a stark warning to the European Parliament, regarding its recent resolution on Taiwan. The country urges EU leaders to exercise caution in their approach to the sensitive issue of Taiwan’s sovereignty. The Chinese foreign ministry emphasized that the EU should not send “wrong signals” to Taiwan’s independence movement. He added that such actions could severely disrupt relations between China and the EU.
This warning of China follows the resolution of the European Parliament that sought to bolster political ties with Taiwan. The movement reflects a broader shift in the EU’s stance toward the island, which Beijing views as a breakaway province. The resolution calls for enhancing EU-Taiwan cooperation, including a potential bilateral investment agreement and even a name change for the EU’s representative office in Taiwan to the “European Union Office in Taiwan.” Such measures are seen by the EU as necessary to support Taiwan’s democratic governance. But also to counter China’s increasing assertiveness in the region.
Accusations of emboldening separatist sentiments
Chinese officials were particularly critical of the EU’s delegation visit to Taiwan, led by Raphael Glucksmann. They claim this meeting could embolden separatist sentiments within the island. Chinese authorities also argue that any recognition of Taiwan’s independence undermines China’s sovereignty, and risks escalating tensions across the Taiwan Strait. The Chinese government reiterated that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China. The country always showed this longstanding position on the matter.
William Lai, the president of Taiwan, has categorically rejected the rhetoric of the spokesperson of the Chinese Mission. He says UN Resolution 2758, adopted in 1971, left “no gray zone or room for ambiguity”. Therefore, he suggests the EU “act prudently on the Taiwan question.” But despite that, Lai vowed the island would never become subordinate to the mainland. The president says Taiwan does not need to declare independence because it is de facto independent. Lai offered China, during his inaugural speech when he became President in May, a chance to resume formal dialogue based on “parity and dignity.” China rejected Lai’s offer, because he is seen as a “dangerous separatist,” and has since ramped up its military drills near the island.
But this is not the first time the EU has faced Beijing, regarding Taiwan. Back in July, when Ursula von der Leyen war re-elected for the Commission Presidency, China said she was “playing with fire”. Von der Leyen then proposed working with other democratic nations in the region, to “deter China from unilaterally changing the status quo by military means, particularly over Taiwan.”